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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Stacey Samuels-Cole, AuD
Hearing Aid Discount Plans
Hearing Professionals Inc.
. http://www.hearing-professionals.com/

Hearing Aid Discount Plans

Before making a large investment in your hearing health care, it is important that you consider the pros and cons of your purchasing plan. Discount plans oftentimes sound like the benefit you receive is equivalent to the level of technology that you need. This is not always true.

With a Discount Plan

You May Receive

Limited Selection Some plans may require you to select from only one or two manufacturers. Not every aid is appropriate for everyone and you may find yourself being over or under amplified thus further limiting the full benefit you could receive from hearing aids.

Limited Follow-up Care With many discount plans, the follow-up or office visits are generally provided at no charge for one year from date of purchase. The cost of subsequent visits after the first year may range from $25-75 per visit.

No Personal Care While illegal in some states, selling and purchasing hearing aids online has become a new mode of “bargain shopping.” Please be aware that when you purchase hearing aids online, once you receive them, you will need to secure a licensed audiologist to have them fit and programmed. Very often licensed practitioners will not handle an aid that has been purchased online. If you find someone, the cost for these services can be anywhere from $100-500.

Limited Technology Many plans offer limited technology i.e. no telephone program, noise reduction, directional microphone, or speech enhancers for clarity.

Limited Information Your plan parameters may actually limit the options that can be discussed at your appointment therefore limiting your ability to make an informed decision.

Limited Expectations It is possible that working within the guidelines of your discount plan you will be sacrificing quality, customer service and your expectations of the hearing device.

At Your Local Audiologist You May Receive Unlimited Selection Choose an audiology practice that is reputable and that is licensed in the field of hearing science and whom you feel comfortable with. Private audiological practices are not restricted to a specific manufacturer and can work with you to provide the appropriate levels of hearing technology and style that would best meet your budget.

Complete Hearing Health Care Includes service for the life of the hearing aid.

Appropriate Technology Your audiologist should offer a wide variety of hearing devices that meet the needs and budgets of each individual patient. This includes offering multiple levels of technology from quality manufacturers.

Realistic Expectations With the fitting of all hearing devices, there is an adaptation period that can last from 3-6 months. Choose an audiologist that works with you through this adaptation period.

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