Trying to find a provider and the best technology to manage your hearing loss can be overwhelming. No one wants to waste time or money on something that won’t provide a benefit. We would love the opportunity to show you how and why we’re different and exactly how we Bring People Together Through Better Hearing. Here are a few of the the common questions we hear from other patients:
When Should I Get My Hearing Checked?
The earlier hearing loss is identified and treated, the less impact it will have on one’s life. For children, it should first be determined if appropriate milestones are being met. Does the baby coo and babble? Startle at loud sounds? Is the child’s speech and language age-appropriate? Does the child respond appropriately to environmental sounds? (i.e., look towards the door when the doorbell rings). If the answer is no to any of these questions then a hearing evaluation should be scheduled. Hearing can be evaluated anytime after birth. There is no need to wait for the child to be a certain age.
If an adult suspects hearing loss the same holds true–early identification is beneficial. At age 50 everyone should have a baseline hearing evaluation. If this test reveals hearing loss, an annual audiogram should be performed. If you notice symptoms of hearing loss, call our office to schedule a complete hearing evaluation.
What Can I Expect When I Get My Hearing Checked?
A hearing test is a painless procedure. Your Audiologist will first look in your ears to rule out foreign bodies or excessive cerumen (earwax). Headphones will then be placed over your ears and you will be asked to listen to and repeat back a list of very soft words. This test is used to determine your level of speech detection. You will then be asked to listen to and repeat back a list of words, which will be presented to you at a comfortable level. This test evaluates your ability to discriminate between sounds (i.e., processing ability). Next, pure tones will be presented in each ear and you will be asked to indicate when you hear them. This pure tone testing identifies the shape, configuration and degree of hearing loss you may have. Depending on these findings, other tests may be performed as well. At the conclusion of testing your Audiologist will review the findings with you. You will know the type and degree of hearing loss you have, if any. Recommendations will be given at this time.
If hearing aids are recommended, realistic expectations will be given, communication strategies reviewed, and hearing aids will be demonstrated. Cosmetic concerns and any dexterity issues that may be present will also be addressed. Your communication needs will be assessed and financial issues such as cost, insurance and out of pocket expenses will be thoroughly reviewed. At the completion of your hearing test you will have an in-depth understanding of your hearing results, appropriate treatments and alternative communication strategies.
Why Should I Choose Good Sound Audiology?
Dr. Tina Jessee, Dr. Kristin Klein and Dr. Valarie Streich and their staff exemplify caring, compassionate hearing healthcare. This is reflected in every interaction you have with Good Sound Audiology, from the first phone call to follow-up services years later. You will receive first-class customer service regardless of the extent of your hearing healthcare needs. All of our Audiologists hold the highest degree recognized in the field of Audiology, and certifications from both the American Speech and Hearing Association, and the American Academy of Audiology. Our commitment to continuing education ensures that you will be offered the most advanced technology. A Doctor of Audiology does make a difference in your hearing healthcare. We’ve collected 10 good reasons to choose us here.
Will Insurance Pay for My Hearing Aids?
Good Sound Audiology is contracted with most insurance plans. Every plan varies. Some pay the full amount, and some pay nothing. We will check your particular plan and review your benefits with you prior to your purchase.
What if I Get Hearing Aids And I Don’t Like Them?
Hearing aid technology dramatically improved over the last five years. The horror stories of spending thousands of dollars and the hearing aids ending up in a drawer are a thing of the past. Good Sound Audiology works only with large, reputable hearing aid manufacturers. This selection ensures that you will get the best hearing aids for your needs. In addition, every purchase includes a 35-day trial period for your complete satisfaction. Should you make a purchase that you are not fully satisfied with, you will be encouraged to return your hearing aids. You will be given a full refund, less a $250 fitting fee. Our goal at Good Sound Audiology is to improve your quality of life through better hearing—and if we fail to give you that you will not be “stuck” with the hearing aids. We define a successful fitting by someone who is wearing his or her hearing aids full time 18 months after the fit date. We have one of the highest success rates in the industry.
I Think I Need a Hearing Aid. What Should I Consider?
Most people find the idea of wearing a hearing aid somewhat daunting. Many people immediately think about the cosmetics of how noticeable it will be. Most are also concerned about the cost, and being “stuck” with something that does not work. These are all valid concerns. Your first step is to obtain a complete hearing evaluation from a licensed Audiologist. An Audiologist is certified and licensed by state, as well as, national organizations and must follow a “code of ethics”. Your Audiologist can address these concerns with you and walk you through the necessary steps to make your hearing aid fitting a successful one. Your Audiologist will review your hearing loss with you and give you realistic expectations for the hearing aid that is selected. Cosmetic and financial concerns will be addressed. Another factor that should be considered is your activity level. A person who spends a lot of time in groups will likely require a more sophisticated processor than someone who just wants to hear the television better. People with dexterity issues will likely do better with a larger hearing aid. Your Audiologist will know the questions to ask, and will guide you to the right hearing aid for your needs.
How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost?
We offer the latest technology from the most reputable manufacturers. Our hearing aids start as low as $1800 per ear. All of our hearing aids come with 35-day trial periods and one, two or three year warranties. In the industry, reputable pricing can range from $1800 to $4000 per ear. Any price too far above or below this price range should generate a red flag. Obviously, cost should be a factor when making your decision to purchase hearing aids, but it should not be the primary factor. A person’s lifestyle will often dictate the type of hearing aid they need. For financial reasons people will often choose a hearing aid that is not right for their lifestyle. If you are someone who is very active and spends a lot of time in groups, but you choose a lower-level hearing aid that will only work well in quiet environments – did you save money or waste money? Based on your degree, type, and configuration of hearing loss, your Audiologist will work with you to find the hearing aid appropriate for your budget and lifestyle needs. Good Sound Audiology also offers interest-free payment plans, affording excellent technology to those with even the strictest budgets.
