Quick Read
A good audiologist will have a degree in audiology from a respectable university, take the time to work with you to evaluate your needs, and never attempt to pressure you into a purchase.
Just like any doctor that you choose throughout your life, it’s worth spending some time doing your research and evaluating your options when you decide you need an audiologist. There are a wide range of services and products available, but to get the very best care it’s worth considering the following:
- A good audiologist will happily provide you with a copy of your hearing test and will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan to help you hear your best. They should be open to questions and you should leave their office feeling you are more informed than you went in.
- When calling to make an appointment, the receptionist should be able to tell you the name of the doctor you will be seeing, and that doctor should practice regularly at the clinic. Your audiologist should also have a degree from a respectable university, and you should easily be able to find their qualifications on their website.
- A good audiologist will never try to bully you into purchasing a hearing aid with scare tactics, a “hard sell”, or promising seemingly magical solutions (such as eliminating all background noise, etc.). An audiologist’s job is first and foremost to work with you to evaluate your hearing and to find solutions that work within your budget to improve your hearing as best possible for your specific needs. Beware of clinics which promise low price hearing aid options, only to inform you that you are not qualified for them once you arrive. A good audiologist will offer a wide range of pricing options, and provide the option of working with multiple heading aid companies.
- A good audiologist knows that care does not stop with the sale of a hearing aid. Regular hearing testing and device maintenance are crucial to insure optimal hearing and good long term hearing aid performance.
- Never let anyone pressure you into taking steps for your health that you are not sure you want. Take time to think and research if you have doubts. However, don’t let taking the time to research be an excuse for not getting help.