Hearing Aids
When hearing aids are recommended, patients have the choice of conventional or digital hearing aids from a variety of manufacturers. During hearing aid counseling, audiologists work closely with patients to design a hearing aid plan tailored to meet that patient's particular needs and desires.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Aids
- Does insurance cover hearing aids?
- Should I get one or two hearing aids?
- How long does a hearing aid last?
- What if something goes wrong with my hearing aid? Do you repair hearing aids?
- Why should I come to The Hearing Clinic and not a different hearing aid dispenser?
- How much do hearing aids cost?
- Where do I buy hearing aid batteries and how much do they cost?
- What are ALDs (Assistive Listening Devices)?
- Are there community facilities that have assistive listening devices available?
Does insurance cover hearing aids?
While some insurance companies pay for all or part of the cost of hearing aids, many do not. Please check with your insurance company or in your policy manual to see if hearing aids are covered.
Should I get one or two hearing aids?
If you have a hearing loss in both ears, you will receive the most benefit from hearing aids if you wear one in each ear. However, there are also situations in which an audiologist may not recommend two. After completing a hearing evaluation, the audiologist will be able to discuss recommendations regarding the size of the hearing aids, the technology options available, as well as whether one or two hearing aids would be necessary for you.
How long will my hearing aid last?
On average, a hearing aid will last approximately 5-7 years. This will vary depending on how well you take care of your hearing aid(s), and how susceptible you are to earwax and ear moisture. Technology is ever changing and often you would be ready to step into something newer after 5-7 years even if your hearing aid is still functioning. This is also beneficial since you will then have a back-up hearing aid if anything should happen to the new aid.
What if something goes wrong with my hearing aid? Do you repair hearing aids?
If a hearing aid malfunctions, it is most often due to moisture and/or earwax problems. Often we can help solve those problems right in the office, but in some situations the hearing aid will need to be sent in to the manufacturer for repair.
Why should I come to The Hearing Clinic and not a different hearing aid dispenser?
We are the only local hearing aid center with board certified audiologists and we are also the only local center affiliated with board certified otolaryngologists. We are proud of our 40 year history of providing outstanding care and look forward to caring you!
How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing aid prices vary depending on the style and technology options you and your audiologist choose.Typically, the cost of hearing aids start at $1000. Patients over 60 may qualify for a senior discount.
Where do I buy hearing aid batteries and how much do they cost?
Hearing aid batteries can be purchased at our clinic by stopping in, by phone, or by mail order. The current cost for batteries is $4.50 for a four-pack and $9.00 for an eight-pack. Most places that sell ordinary batteries will also have hearing aid batteries.
What are ALDs (Assistive Listening Devices)?
These devices assist in hearing sounds that can alert someone, like the telephone or the doorbell, or sounds that just need a little more volume for one person but not the entire room, like the television or a performance (see the next question). If you would like additional information about ALDs, please stop by our clinic for a free catalog. If your budget is limited, the Regional Service Center has an amplified telephone equipment distribution program for the hard of hearing.
Are there community facilities that have assistive listening devices available?
Yes. For example, many of the theaters and places of worship in the St. Cloud area can provide you with a device to help you hear better while you are at their facility.
Any information provided on this site should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for a consultation with a physician. If you have a medical problem, contact your local physician for diagnosis and treatment.
