These days there are many advertisements for hearing aid solutions, you might see them on TV, on the internet and in newspapers.
You might be tempted to ask yourself: should I get my hearing aids online?
First, know that a lot of the devices sold on these sites may not technically fall under the hearing aid category. Many of these devices are often considered amplifiers, so they may not be what you’re looking for.
If you want to buy these types of hearing aids “on the cheap” you can go through one of these online resellers or for example, even go to Costco. But, in the end, how do you know you’re getting the right product to meet your needs?
Take a look at this woman’s experience as highlighted in an article from The New York Times:
Admittedly, my experience at Costco was mixed. The inexperienced hearing aid dispenser suggested a brand, Bernafon, that I was not familiar with. The sound was compressed and tinny; it never sounded or fit right and had to be remade several times. After seven or so visits, I was beginning to believe the adage “You get what you pay for” (in this case, $950).
A hearing aid is a medical device, it’s important that you get one from experienced professionals. In the long run not purchasing your hearing aid from a legitimate business — a certified hearing centre, may very well end up costing you more in the long run.
For starters, if you buy online, you won’t receive the high-quality personalized service a hearing centre provides. Audiologists and technicians that work closely with you will understand your hearing loss better than any website!
Furthermore, one of the biggest downsides to buying online is that hearing aids/amplifiers need to be mailed in for adjustments. And if this is your first time getting fitted for a hearing aid, you might not know how it ought to work properly; or you might need additional guidance. If you have questions or issues with your hearing aids, who are you going to call?
It’s important to have access to a trained audiologist that can look at the hearing aid for you and make sure it’s properly fitted to your ear and working in its optimal condition.
The price of a hearing aid is not just for the device itself, it’s for the service that comes along with knowing that you are walking out with the best hearing solution for you! To know that you will be able to feel confident that you’re not missing out on anything important! That’s priceless!