The world is changing how it shops for goods and services. With a click of your mouse you can get anything you want delivered to your doorstep. Want to buy a six-month supply of toilet paper and fancy cheese in the same spot? We have a warehouse that can help you with that. But for some things, like hearing aids, it may be worth doing it the old fashioned way.
So you may be thinking to yourself, ok hotshot, where is the best place to get a hearing aid if not a big box retailer? In order to figure this out, it is best to understand your options.
Hearing Professionals
There are two distinct types of hearing loss professionals – audiologists and hearing instrument specialists. While both can help you decide which hearing aid to buy, the titles are not created equally.
A Columbia audiologist is a licensed and certified professional who has earned a master’s or doctoral degree in the field of audiology. They are certified and licensed to practice by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Audiologists are trained to diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders, perform comprehensive hearing evaluations, fit hearing devices and counsel patients and their families on communication strategies.
A Columbia hearing instrument specialist is required to have completed high school or received an equivalent degree. In addition, they must pass a written and practical exam to earn a South Carolina license. These specialists are trained to interpret hearing evaluations as well as select, fit and program hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Centers
Alright, once you have determined who you want to work with to select the best hearing aid for your type and degree of hearing loss, the where to buy is still a question.
Big-box retailers have the lure of low prices and short wait times . But these stores often sell outdated options and take a one-size-fits-all approach. In addition, they offer few (if any) options for follow-up visits, which are needed to make adjustments to your new devices.
Visiting your Columbia audiologist’s office provides you with the opportunity to work one-on-one with a hearing loss expert. They will run a series of tests in order to determine your exact type and degree of hearing loss and will then use that information to create an individualized treatment plan.
You and your audiologist will then review your options and work to select the best hearing aid for you. It will then be expertly fitted to meet your hearing needs. A series of follow-up visits will be scheduled. These visits give your audiologist the chance to adjust and reprogram your hearing aids to make sure they are working as well as possible.
Did I mention that in addition to providing higher quality care, your Columbia audiologist carries the most up-to-date devices, which contain the newest technology and the widest variety of additional features?
The choice is really up to you. And we think we know what you have decided. Contact your Columbia audiologist today to get started.