Peter studied hearing aid fitting at the world headquarters of Starkey Labs. He was able to have hands on training with the company’s founder, Bill Austin. He has also undergone advanced training in the smallest, nearly invisible style hearing aids, and has expanded his education by traveling to Denmark to learn directly from European hearing aid manufacturers. He continues to attend conferences and training seminars to stay current on the rapidly evolving world of hearing aid technology.
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When it comes to purchasing hearing aids, many people assume that big box stores are the best place to go. After all, they have a wide selection and seemingly lower prices. However, this assumption is not always accurate. At our hearing practice, we believe that buying hearing aids from a professional hearing provider is the best choice. In this blog, we’ll explore why big box stores may not be the best place to purchase hearing aids and what makes a professional hearing provider the better choice.
Basic Hearing Test
An important consideration when purchasing hearing aids at big box stores is the hearing test they offer. The hearing test provided is a basic one that only tells you if you have a hearing problem or not. However, hearing loss is a complex and nuanced condition, and each type of hearing loss requires a specific type of treatment.
Knowing the intricacies of your hearing loss is crucial for getting the right care. This level of detailed evaluation can only be provided by a qualified audiologist who can conduct a comprehensive hearing test and analyze the results to create a personalized treatment plan.
Lack of Personalized Attention
At big box stores, the focus is often on selling as many products as possible, including hearing aids. However, the staff may not have the knowledge or experience to provide personalized attention to each customer. At our hearing practice, our hearing professionals take the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and recommend the best hearing aid for their lifestyle and budget.
Limited Selection and Technology
Big box stores may offer a wide selection of products, but they often lack the latest hearing aid technology. This can result in customers purchasing outdated or ineffective hearing aids. At our hearing practice, we stay up-to-date with the latest technology and offer a wide range of hearing aids to meet each patient’s unique needs.
Locked Hearing Aids
Big box stores often lock their hearing aids, preventing other providers from adjusting the settings. While this may seem like a minor issue, it can be problematic if you need adjustments to your hearing aids or require follow-up care. A dedicated hearing professional can provide ongoing adjustments to your hearing aids as needed, ensuring that you are always receiving the best possible care for your hearing needs.
Questionable Quality Control
Big box stores often have questionable quality control when it comes to hearing aids. The hearing aids may not be properly programmed or calibrated, which can result in discomfort or inadequate amplification. At our hearing practice, we ensure that each hearing aid is properly calibrated and programmed to ensure the best possible results for our patients.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
After purchasing hearing aids, follow-up care is crucial to ensure that they continue to function properly and meet the patient’s needs. At big box stores, follow-up care may be limited or non-existent. At our hearing practice, we provide ongoing follow-up care to ensure that our patients are satisfied with their hearing aids and to make any necessary adjustments.
Benefits of Purchasing Hearing Aids from Us
There are numerous benefits to purchasing hearing aids from a professional hearing provider. In addition to personalized attention, the latest technology, and proper quality control, we also offer:
- Expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating hearing loss
- Custom-fit hearing aids for maximum comfort and effectiveness
- Comprehensive hearing evaluations to determine the best treatment plan
- Insurance and financing options to make hearing treatment more affordable
In conclusion, while big box stores may be a great place to purchase household items and other products, it’s important to consider the limitations and potential drawbacks when it comes to purchasing hearing aids. Choosing a qualified hearing professional at a dedicated hearing practice ensures that you receive the highest level of care and attention for your hearing needs, including personalized evaluations, comprehensive treatment plans, ongoing adjustments and follow-up care, and access to expert advice and support.
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, don’t wait any longer to seek treatment. Visit our hearing practice today to schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation and explore the latest hearing aid technology. Our hearing professionals are here to provide the personalized attention and expert care you need to improve your hearing health and enhance your quality of life.