FAQs
Frequently Asked Utah Hearing Aid Questions
Q: Why do hearing aids cost so much?
A: The cost of hearing aids is often perceived as exceptionally high by many consumers but most individuals fail to notice the actually breakdown unless it is explained thoroughly. First, all hearing aids sold by Edison Stanford Hearing Center come with a lifetime service guarantee. This means that any retesting, adjustments, programming, cleaning, tubing changes, minor repairs, etc. are at NO ADDITONAL COST. Recently one of our patients asked how we can do all these services without charging. The answer is simply bundled pricing. One major reason that the initial investment of hearing aids is so high is because they are sold as a bundle including all of the above mentioned services and more. The cost also reflects latest technology and training, our cost of equipment, etc. Simply put, we strive to keep our prices affordable while providing the best quality products and the best quality service.
Q: Can I try the hearing instrument before I decide to purchase?
A: Yes. All of our products are sold with a 30-day money back guarantee, and many of our BTE products include test-drive options with no obligation.
Q: Does a hearing aid amplify all sound (including noise)?
A: Modern technology helps to eliminate noise with most hearing aids. This is usually done using a directional microphone system, as well as specific algorithms to recognize and distinguish speech from noise. This being said, it is important to remember that even individuals with perfect hearing experience difficulties understanding in noisy environments.
Q: How much do hearing aid batteries cost and how long do they last?
A: Our offices strive to provide hearing aid batteries at a very competitive price. Please contact your local office for pricing information. Hearing Instrument Batteries generally last 7-10 days depending on the size of battery you use. A simple reminder regarding batteries: all our hearing instruments are sold with a 1-year supply of batteries.
Q: Can’t I just purchase hearing instruments online?
A: The simple answer for this is no. Would you consider buying any other medical device online? Hearing Instruments require specific programming in-order-to amplify correctly for your specific hearing loss. This requires special testing and programming equipment as well as years of expertise. Purchasing hearing instruments online without professional help will simply lead to frustration and disappointment.
Q: What if I’m not sure if I have a hearing loss?
A: All of our office locations offer complimentary hearing exams to the public with no obligation. If we don’t find a significant loss we will not recommend a hearing instrument.
Q: Does my insurance pay for hearing aids?
A: An increasing number of health insurance companies are now offering coverage for hearing instruments. Check with your plan for your specific coverage.
Q: Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
A: No, currently Medicare does not provide any coverage for hearing instruments.
Q: What if my hearing loss is simply due to ear wax build up?
A: At the beginning of every hearing exam we check both of your ears using a video-otoscope to see if there is wax buildup in the ear canals, as well as to examine the tympanic membrane (eardrum). If you have wax we can usually remove it immediately. If it is too impacted our office may refer you to an ENT doctor.
Q: What is an audioprosthologist?
A: An audioprosthologist is a highly trained professional that holds a certificate of completion by the International Hearing Society. The International Hearing Society is an international society of hearing healthcare professionals who adhere to a strict code of ethical standards. Audioprosthologist's in Utah also hold a State license from the Department of Health as a Hearing Instrument Specialist. An audioprosthologist is able to assess hearing loss, provide hearing rehabilitation treatments, cerumen management (clean the external ear canal of wax buildup) and refer medical conditions to a physician.
Audioprosthologist's conduct a wide variety of hearing assessments to determine the nature of an individual’s hearing disorder. They are responsible for the non-medical management and rehabilitation of hearing loss. As a result, they are able to present a variety of treatment options, which include evaluating, prescribing, fitting hearing instruments along with other devices and counseling. They conduct follow up consultations after hearing instruments have been fitted to ensure patients have adjusted to their new hearing abilities and receive the clearest amplification possible.
With the use of an amplification device and customized instruction, most people with hearing impairment may experience enhanced communication abilities. An audioprosthologist provides individualized consultation services, helping people function more effectively with family and friends in social, leisure, educational and work environments. Audioprosthologist's are committed to improving and helping people of all ages hear well.
In the community, audioprosthologist are concerned with the effects of prolonged noise exposure. They may assist in the development and management of noise control and hearing conservation programs, working to protect those exposed to noise in occupational, industrial, recreational and leisure situations.
Q: What are the main classifications of hearing instruments?
A: Behind-the-Ear (BTE), which is usually fit with a custom ear mold. Open-Fit, which sits behind the ear also, but uses a silicone dome instead of a custom ear mold. In-the-Ear (ITE), a custom instrument that fits into the ear canal is visible from the outside. Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC), a custom instrument that fits deep inside the ear canal, and is barely visible from the outside.
More questions? Please contact us.