Choosing a hearing aid is not easy, especially if your options are limited by product type or price. Fortunately, a New federal laws that have gone into effect Last year expanded the options available to you.
Americans with mild to moderate hearing impairment are now able Buy hearing aids over the counter According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dramatically lower prices give millions more affordable devices to choose from. Previously, customers were required to obtain a prescription from an audiologist or other hearing professional to make such purchases.
The exact number of Americans who need hearing aids is unclear. Each organization has its own way of reporting and tracking such information. However National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders Estimates – Based on data collected by the annual National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) – approximately 28.8 million US adults could benefit from hearing aids.
Presidents Day Sale
If you’re in the market for a new hearing aid and you want to buy one online, there are some President’s Day sales you can take advantage of right now:
With MDHearing’s President’s Day Sale, you can save up to $1,200 on select over-the-counter hearing aid products and services. And you can claim a limited-time offer: buy one NEO hearing aid and get a second one free (with a second charge) with promo code: BONUS23.
“Designed by a doctor to help more than 94% of people with hearing loss, MDHearing has already helped hundreds of thousands of Americans skip the middleman and enjoy the sounds of life again—thousands less than traditional clinics,” explains MDHearing’s site, Adding that it has a 100% money back guarantee.
How to Choose the Best Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
Although it is not required, it is still recommended that you speak with a licensed audiologist and consider a quick medical exam to help determine your exact hearing aid needs.
If you’re ready to shop for new hearing aids but still want a quick consultation with a professional, consider using an online service like Lively. You start with a quick online hearing test, scan the site for a high-quality hearing aid, place your order and Lively will program them to your needs and ship them straight to your doorstep. Its as simple as that. Get started now.
To choose the best over-the-counter hearing aid, review these five steps.
1. Determine the style
First, determine what style (size, type, etc.) works best for you. Do you want a complete in-the-canal hearing aid, an in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid, an in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid, a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, a receiver-in-the-canal ( RIC) or receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids, an open fit or something else? Please review your choices carefully.
Mayo Clinic offers an in-depth review of each style as well as an illustration showing how each device will fit. You can also go National Council on Aging website to see pros and cons Every style and fit.
“Hearing aids vary greatly in price, size, specifications, and the way they are placed in your ear,” explains the Mayo Clinic online. “Hearing aid designers continue to create smaller hearing aids to meet the needs of hearing aids that are not too noticeable. But smaller aids may not have the ability to provide the improved hearing you expect.”
2. Review the features
You’ll want to carefully review the features and functionality of each hearing aid. The Mayo Clinic recommends looking for the following: noise reduction, rechargeable battery, wireless connection, synchronization (if you use two hearing aids), telecoil, directional microphone, a remote control, and more.
3. Ask for a trial period
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Many hearing aids come with a trial period, where you can test the device and determine if it will work for you long term.
“Have the dispenser write down the cost of a trial, whether this amount is credited toward the final cost of the hearing aid, and how much is refundable if you return the hearing aid during the trial,” advises the Mayo Clinic.
4. Check for a warranty
Likewise, you’ll want to consider getting a warranty if the device malfunctions or doesn’t work as expected.
5. Compare costs
Finally, the cost of the device is still something to consider. You don’t want a hearing aid to break the bank. Shop around and be sure to do your research. Compare brands, services, products and prices to determine the best hearing aid you can afford.
It is always wise to double check your insurance policy to see if your insurance policy will cover part of the cost.
“Medicare does not cover the cost of hearing aids for adults. In many states, private insurers are required to pay for hearing aids for children. Medical Assistance covers hearing aids in most states. If you are a veteran, you may be able to the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to get your hearing aid at no cost,” adds the Mayo Clinic.
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