Hearing Aid Services
As a service to
our community members and patients who have hearing impairments we
offer
comprehensive hearing aid services for children and adults.
Over 24 million
Americans suffer some form of hearing impairment. Some hearing problems
can be
treated by surgical or medical intervention.
Most hearing problems, about 90%, can only be helped by
the use of
amplification or hearing aids.
Being able to
hear well is a quality of life issue.
The sounds of a loved one’s voice or the bird chirping can
bring joy to
our ears. When our
ears don't work
properly we can become frustrated, depressed or embarrassed. Sometimes our safety is at
stake.
Hearing
impairments are strongly associated with the aging process, but can be
the
result of disease, lifestyle, genetics or trauma.
Once developed, a hearing impairment is
usually permanent and may get progressively worse as time goes on.
Hearing aids
come in many different types and styles and can be tailored to meet
your
performance, lifestyle, appearance and budget needs.
Today’s hearing aids can be adapted for use
with Bluetooth telephones, TV, computers and iPods and MP3 players. Our purpose in helping you
with hearing aids
is to maximize your potential and help make communication easier.
Potential and
experienced hearing aid users usually have many questions regarding the
products and services provided by our office. In order to clarify our
policies
and to better introduce ourselves, we offer the following information.
Our
audiologist, Daniel T. Bigart, Au.D. is here
to help
you. The first step
to resolving a
hearing disorder is a thorough examination and evaluation of your ears
and
hearing. This will
determine the type
and severity of your hearing loss and allow us to discuss treatment
options
that are available to help.
Our audiologist is certified and licensed with a Doctorate of Audiology in the study of hearing and hearing disorders. He has extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of hearing loss, including the fitting and dispensing of hearing aids. He works in close association with Dr. Klingensmith and Dr. Bosley, so that all of your hearing health care needs can be done in the same office.
Please read these Hearing Aid FAQs from the American Academy of Audiology for helpful information as you consider the use of hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Evaluations
After
candidacy for the hearing aid (s) has been established, and the patient
has
decided to consider purchase, the following occurs:
1. A
general discussion regarding hearing aids, benefit to be
derived, and
adjusting to the use of hearing aids.
2.
The size and style are selected.
3. A
decision is made to obtain either one (monaural) or two (binaural)
hearing
aids.
4.
Impressions are made to obtain molds of the ears.
The hearing aid fitting involves tuning the hearing aid to fit the patient's hearing loss and comfort. Computerized verification of the fitting is completed by using probe microphone Real Ear Measurement (REM). REM tests ensure an accurate and appropriate fit for the patient's hearing loss. The patient will be oriented ot the use, care and function of the hearing aid.
A thirty-day trial period is available for all hearing aids. If the patient is not satisfied they simply return the hearing aid for a refund, however there may be a nominal charge to cover time or materials.
Warranty and Repairs
Our new
hearing aids are warrantied for repairs and loss/damage.
Typically, a one
or two year warranty accompanies new hearing aid purchases. Extended warranties are
available at an
additional cost. Simple
repairs services
are performed in the office. Extensive
repairs will generally require the aid to be returned to the
manufacturer.
Products
