subject: Selecting A Hearing Care Provider For A Hearing Aid [print this page] How do you go about choosing a hearing care provider when you need to get an assistive device for auditory use? Not only do you need to buy a hearing aid, you also must rely on the services of a qualified provider who will assist you with your choice.
Your search needs to begin with the professional who will sell you the piece of auditory equipment. This is the same person who will also fit you with the device. You may be referred to someone by your physician, or you may get recommendations from family, friends or work colleagues.
A loved one or friend who has had a successful experience with a professional is a good indication to you that a high quality of service is to be found with this individual. However, this does not provide you with information on the kind of hearing aid that is best for you. This is something that is different and unique to everyone.
Professionals who sell assistive devices for hearing and offer hearing health care are known as hearing aid dispensers or hearing care professionals. These individuals can be either hearing aid specialists or audiologists. In most cities throughout the United States, you will find numerous professionals who sell auditory equipment and offer services to hearing impaired customers. However, if you live in a rural area, your choices may be more limited as to whom you can visit.
If you like to shop in large retail chains, find out if there is a hearing care center there. Some hearing care specialists can be found working in these large stores because they can reach a larger crowd.
Whether you choose to look in a small office or in a larger center, shop around among the auditory specialists. Compare the services offered as well as the prices that are available. The prices may vary quite a bit, which is why shopping around is essential. You may discover that the available services and product types are different everywhere you go, as well as the testing procedures themselves.
How the billing is handled by a provider is something else that you need to find out about. Most of them will quote you one price for everything. This includes the electronic equipment you purchase from them, as well as the services that they offer you. There are some dispensers though who will bill their customers separately for the aids they purchase and the services that are rendered.
In looking for audiologists and auditory specialists to serve you, place a call to the state licensing board for these professionals. You could also check with the Better Business Bureau in your area and a local consumer protection agency to see if any complaints have ever been files against the dispenser in question. You might even wish to check with the state Attorney General's office for any complaints or problems.
