Answers to Consumer Questions About Hearing Aids

Q. Is everyone who fits hearing aids an audiologist?

A. Hearing Aid dispensers and Doctors of Audiology can fit hearing aids, but there are important differences between them. Hearing aid dispensers are not required to have a degree in audiology. They need only to pass a test. California licensed Audiologists, such as those at Whisper Hearing Center, hold a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree and have undergone rigorous professional training.

Audiologists have the education and experience necessary to examine your hearing and prescribe a solution that effectively addresses your hearing loss.

Q. Who can provide a hearing exam?

A. Only audiologists and physicians are licensed to provide hearing examinations. Hearing aid dispensers give hearing tests, which are solely for the purpose of fitting and selling hearing aids. Hearing aid dispensers do not have the training that enables them to diagnose hearing loss or pinpoint a medical problem. A professional hearing examination defines the type and degree of hearing loss.

Q. How do I know if a hearing aid is benefiting me?

A. Whisper Hearing Center uses the latest software and a tiny microphone placed in your ear to ensure that hearing devices are performing optimally. It can take up to three weeks for your ears to acclimate to hearing new sounds again. In fact, people with hearing loss have gone many years without hearing the full spectrum of sound. After this initial period, you will notice that it is much easier and more relaxing to listen to others than before. Your family and friends will also notice how much better you hear them.

Q. I have Kaiser insurance. Do I need to go to Kaiser for my hearing care?

A. Whisper Hearing Center accepts patients with Kaiser insurance. Kaiser members do not need a referral to enjoy Whisper Hearing Center’s world-class service and to benefit from the expertise of our Doctors of Audiology. After your hearing examination, we send a copy of your results and our recommendations to your Kaiser physician and keep them apprised of your hearing status.

Q. Why are some hearing aids advertised for $29.95? Some people I know have spent $6000 for one hearing aid.

A. A hearing aid priced in the range from $29.95 to $695 will likely offer very limited benefits to a very few people. If, on the other hand, you are quoted $4000 to $5000 for one hearing aid, we suggest that you look further. We at Whisper Hearing Center know that there are excellent hearing aids that cost from $995 to $3495 each.

Q. My friend has a hearing aid she likes. Should I get the same one?

A. Though we may see many people with the same type and degree of hearing loss, each person may prefer a different model of hearing aid. The hearing aid your friend uses may be exactly what you need and want. Or, after talking with one of our experienced Doctors of Audiology, you may decide that a different one will meet your needs much better.

Q. I sometimes see advertisements looking for participants in a hearing aid study or trial. Are these legitimate?

A. A legitimate medical study won’t advertise for “35 people to participate in a hearing aid trial.” Most advertisements for genuine clinical studies will include the name of the study and the company sponsoring it and will not require payment from you to participate.

Q. Why are hearing aids so expensive?

A. Manufacturing is a fraction of the price of a hearing aid. The real cost is in the millions of dollars spent in research and development. Hearing aids must also be fitted, delivered, and checked periodically by a licensed professional. This attention is essential because an improperly fitted hearing aid can lead to pain, ear infections and/or damage to your hearing. To ensure a successful outcome, you need a comprehensive hearing examination, a professional fitting, and  regular follow-up by a licensed audiologist.

Q. What are “hearing experts,” “licensed hearing specialists,” and “ Certified Audioprostologists?”

A. These terms are often used to describe non-audiologists. Some companies hire high-pressure sales people who visit an office for one or two days to convince you to buy their product. We believe that purchasing a hearing aid is an investment in your health and shouldn’t be taken lightly. At Whisper Hearing Center, the audiologist who sees you during your initial consultation practices here full time and is responsible for ensuring your success with hearing aids over the long term.