Submitted by the Audiologists at Midwest Hearing Center
Choices, choices, choices. We have become accustomed to having a choice in just about everything — from choosing where to buy groceries or eat dinner to who will repair our car, or even which doctor we will see. When making a large investment, most of us agree it is best to seek out a professional with the most knowledge and experience — someone who is educated to help make the best decision. The choice of where one goes to get help with his/her hearing should be no different. Where you shop for hearing aids is almost as important as the type you purchase. One of the biggest decisions a patient must make is between a local audiology practice and “big box” chain stores.
Patients often ask, “What’s the difference between a local audiologist and a chain retailer?” One major difference is the qualifications of the hearing aid professionals. Audiologists are highly trained professionals in the diagnosis, testing, evaluation, and rehabilitation of non-medical hearing loss. They are also trained regarding when a medical referral for hearing loss is warranted. Licensed audiologists have advanced education, and have earned either a Masters or Doctorate level degree in Audiology. In contrast, most individuals dispensing hearing aids in “big box” stores are “hearing instrument specialists.” Hearing instrument specialists in Illinois need a high school diploma, and must pass both a written and practical exam to dispense hearing aids. While they possess a working knowledge about hearing aids, their breadth of knowledge about the auditory system, and their training, is often very limited.
Another difference that appears obvious to patients is cost. Chain retailers often advertise hearing aids for a fraction of the cost of audiology practices. However, often the hearing aids that are actually recommended are comparable in price to those offered at a medical practice. If the cost actually is lower, it is often because retail stores carry limited brands and models of hearing aids, and the technology is likely a few years behind current technology. Additionally, access to follow-up can be limited. Follow-up and adjustments can be critical when a patient first obtains hearing aids, so lack of follow-up can greatly reduce satisfaction with hearing aids. Finally, if aids are purchased at big chain stores, other clinics usually cannot help make adjustments because they are “locked,” so that no one besides the specific store can adjust them.
Besides the difference in personnel and cost, there are also other issues that differentiate audiology practices from retail/chain stores. Many big chain stores do not have calibrated and certified equipment or soundproof booths. This makes testing less reliable, and can jeopardize the quality of the hearing aid fitting. Their limited supply and direct sales approach may seem to simplify the process, but it also limits the patients’ ability to have an active role in their hearing healthcare. Finally, just because big chain stores sell hearing aids does not mean that they are equipped to address other hearing issues. There are many conditions that can be associated with hearing loss, such as dizziness, ringing, pain, or drainage that are best assessed by a hearing health professional, such as an audiologist or an ENT (Ear Nose & Throat) physician.
When looking to select a hearing professional, check to see if the staff are state certified audiologists with either a Masters or Doctorate degree in Audiology who perform all testing in sound-proof booths using calibrated equipment. If the examination or the patient’s history indicates a need for medical attention for the hearing loss, they can refer to a physician in the office.
Despite the popular saying, one size does not fit all. The same premise goes with hearing. It is wise to look for an organization that works with multiple manufacturers which allows the practice to offer options appropriate for each individual patient. During a hearing aid consultation, ample time is taken to review test results and discuss all options appropriate to each patient’s situation. These types of organizations do not keep “stock” hearing aids in the office, which allows them to always offer the newest technology available. During hearing aid fittings, make sure your hearing professional performs objective “real-ear” measurements to verify that the power levels are meeting the “target” or “prescription” for each individual’s hearing loss. This comprehensive care ensures a quality hearing aid fitting, and gives patients the best chance for success with their hearing aids.
For more information about Midwest Hearing Center, or to schedule an appointment, please call 309-691-6616 in Peoria, or 309-284-0164 in Morton. You can email them at Peoriahearingcenter@mw-ent.com; or at mortonhearing@mw-ent.com.