Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are electronic devices worn in the ear that amplify sound. These devices come in an assortment of styles, sizes and colors and have a variety of features. Our audiologist will recommend the appropriate hearing aid for you or your child and will work with you to ensure that optimal benefit is received from the device.
The process
The need for a hearing aid is determined by our team of audiologists and otolaryngologists (ENT physicians). To begin the process for obtaining a hearing aid, two main documents are required:
- Medical clearance from ENT physician
- Hearing Test completed within/not older than six months
Next, a consultation appointment is set up with you and the audiologist. At this appointment, our audiologist may review the following items, including but not limited to:
- Your hearing loss, specific communication needs, expectations for wearing a hearing aid(s), answer your questions etc.
- Funding for the hearing aid(s) i.e. insurance, out-of-pocket payment, or additional funding sources
- Manufacturer and warranty information
- Appropriate styles and types of hearing aids, choose colors, etc
- Ear mold impression(s) may be taken if necessary
- The need for follow-up for hearing aid fitting
Once specific hearing aid(s) have been selected, you will return for a hearing aid fitting/orientation appointment. During this appointment, the audiologist will cover the following items which may include but are not limited to:
- Computer programming of hearing aid(s) done by the audiologists
- Verification of appropriate amplification/volume emitted by the hearing aid(s)
- Patient/Parent orientation to the devices
- Basic troubleshooting techniques
- Scheduling of follow-up appointments
After the initial period of getting a hearing aid(s), you are required to attend periodic appointments with our audiologists in order to address several items which may include but are not limited to:
- Routine maintenance, troubleshooting and servicing of the device(s)
- Determine the need for new ear molds
- Periodic hearing tests within and without amplification
- Adjustments to the hearing aid programming
Throughout this process, our audiologists are willing to help answer any questions or address problems related to the hearing aid(s).
Hearing Aid/Audiology Hotline: 757.388.6234