Thursday, June 26, 2014

Why do some places offer free hearing tests and others do not?



There really are no “free” hearing tests.  At some point the cost of providing the assessment needs to be recouped.  Typically, those who offer “free” hearing tests bundle the cost into the price of the hearing instruments.  This makes it difficult for you to see that you are paying for the test.


The confusion arises because there are two types of providers for hearing and hearing instruments, audiologists and hearing aid dealers.  The level of care and service varies between the two providers because of the differences in what their license allows them to do.

An audiologist provides audiologic assessment, (hearing evaluation).  This is much more than a hearing test.  It includes an evaluation of the outer, middle and inner ears and various measures of hearing.  Audiologic assessment gives in-depth information about your ears and hearing ability.  This in-depth information is the most important part of your evaluation.  All of our recommendations are based on the outcome of this evaluation.  It is so important that Medicare and other insurances companies typically allow for an annual hearing evaluation for those with hearing difficultly.   By billing insurance for the assessment, it can keep the price of hearing instruments down.
The Shepherd's Hook 

Hearing aid dealers or hearing aid specialists are trained to perform a simple hearing test but cannot assess the outer, middle and inner ears.   They are not recognized by insurance companies as providers for hearing testing or audiologic assessment and cannot bill your insurance, thus the need to offer a “free” hearing test. The "free" hearing test is then used as an enticement to draw people to the practice.


Give yourself good care.  Schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists for an audiologic assessment (hearing evaluation) to have your ears and hearing assessed.  From there, we can determine if you need to see a physician or if hearing aids are appropriate.  


Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!


8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818



 Image obtained 5-28-14 at: http://theshepherdshook.blogspot.com/

Thursday, June 19, 2014

How do know if you need to have a hearing evaluation?



Typically, hearing changes slowly and gradually.  So slowly most people don’t realize it’s changed.  Because the one with decreased hearing ability often is unaware of it, it’s important to listen to the loved ones around you.  They will notice the changes in your hearing behavior.  When they do, it’s time for a hearing evaluation.



Though loved ones often notice it first, you may be aware of some of the signs and symptoms.  You can take the Hearing Quiz.

  1. Do family members complain that the TV is too loud? 
  2. Do you have difficulty hearing someone talk from another room? 
  3. Do you have difficulty with a conversation when in a moving vehicle? 
  4. Do you feel people mumble? 
  5. Do you hear part of what people say? 
  6. Do you have trouble hearing on the telephone? 
  7. Do you have noises in your ears? 
  8. Have you worked in a noisy place?
If you said yes to any of these questions, you are overdue for a baseline assessment.  We recommend everyone have a baseline evaluation by the age of 40 years.  This will allow us to track future changes in hearing.  Hearing assessment is usually a covered benefit under your health insurance, there is no reason to put it off.   You have much to gain by taking care of your hearing.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!


8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818

 
Image obtained 5-28-14 at: http://www.saferinternet.org/quiz

Thursday, June 12, 2014

How do I choose the right hearing aids?


PhotobucketYou play the most significant role in assuring satisfaction with hearing aids.  In order to be happy with your hearing aids, your needs, desires and expectations must be met.  You and your audiologist can address your communication issues and develop strategies for improving them.  Here are some suggestions for improving your chances of being fit with the right hearing aids.



Identify your own personal needs:

  • Make a list of situations where your hearing loss has been a problem
  • Describe difficult situations:  i.e., the telephone, TV, communicating with family, movies, meetings, church, small groups, listening to young children, large conferences


Other factors to consider include:

  • The degree of your hearing loss

  • Size and condition of your ears

  • Your ability to manipulate the instruments and batteries

  • Your individual lifestyle

A positive attitude with realistic expectations about your hearing aids will improve your chances for a successful hearing aid fitting! Today’s digital technology allows for smaller instruments, improved noise and feedback management and automatic features. Extended wear instruments are also now available.  All instruments are programmed and fine tuned to meet your individual needs by the audiologist. 


See an audiologist for your hearing care. Be patient, ask questions and work closely with the audiologist who is fitting your hearing aids. Discover a whole new world of wonderful sounds.   



Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!


8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818


  Image obtained 5-28 at: http://blog.shanicekoh.com/2012/07/im-proud-to-be-clucker.html