The Process of Purchasing Hearing Aids through JHBI
Many patients are unfamiliar with hearing aid technology or the process of purchasing hearing aids when they visit our clinic. Below is an overview of what to expect when pursuing amplification through The Hearing Center at JHBI.
Step 1: Hearing Evaluation
The first step is to schedule a hearing evaluation. A comprehensive hearing evaluation includes testing your ability to hear different pitches along with how well you can understand speech. If you are a hearing aid candidate you will be referred to our Hearing Center for a hearing aid consultation with an Audiologist.
Step 2: Hearing Aid Consultation
Step two of purchasing hearing aids is the hearing aid consultation. A hearing aid consultation appointment is free and typically lasts an hour. You are encouraged to bring your spouse or loved ones to this appointment for support and help with decision-making. The Audiologist will go over the results of your hearing test, discuss your hearing needs and expectations of hearing aids, and review the latest hearing aid technology and styles. Based on this conversation, a particular hearing aid style and technology level will be recommended for you. Once a hearing aid is selected and ordered, a hearing aid dispense appointment will be scheduled in approximately two weeks.
Step 3: Hearing Aid Dispense
At the dispense appointment, the Audiologist will program and adjust the hearing aid(s) to your individual hearing loss and hearing healthcare needs. It is also a good idea to bring your spouse or loved ones to this appointment as well. Our Audiology Assistant will meet with you after the hearing aids are fit to discuss, demonstrate, and practice the proper insertion and removal of the hearing aid(s) and batteries. You also will learn how to clean and maintain the devices to promote longevity of the hearing aids.
Step 4: Hearing Aid Adjustment Period
After being fit with hearing aid(s) you will have a 30-day trial period to decide if you would like to keep the devices. It takes time to adapt to using amplification and it is not unusual to need multiple visits with the Audiologist within the first 30 days to get the settings of the hearing aids just right. For this reason, a two week follow up is scheduled after the hearing aids are dispensed. Our Audiologists work hard to assure a successful hearing aid fit. However, if you feel you are not getting enough benefit with hearing aids, you can return the devices for a refund while in your trial period.
We are happy to answer any questions you have about pursuing amplification for you or a family member. To schedule a hearing test or hearing aid consultation, you can contact our clinic at (904) 399-0350 ext 246.