of all ages experience hearing impairments, eight million of whom are over age 69. If you are considering buying a hearing aid, it´s important to know what to look for when making this investment.
The sophistication to hearing aids is ever increasing. You may experience hearing aids referred to as "Hearing Devices" or "Hearing Instruments". We are going to call them Hearing Devices.
Each state has their guidelines and regulations of who can sell you a Hearing Device. The rules, guidelines and licensure are located at each states website of consumer affairs. The individual who sells you a Hearing Device must be licensed!
The majority of states require a two part exam an individual needs to pass in order to sell you a Hearing Device. The first part is a written exam where the individual must pass with a minimum of 70%. The second half/part is a hands-on practical where the individual must show their competence by performing a hearing test, trouble shooting Hearing Devices, taking an impression of your ear and abiding to all infectious control during the procedures.
Audiologists in some states are not required to take this licensure exam. Audiologist, although do have to have a license to practice Audiology, relieving them of having to take the Hearing Device Dispensing exam. All others who are not Audiologist must take the licensure exam in order to sell a Hearing Device. Look for this licensure in the office of your provider; it must be visible to each member.
To be most successful with your hearing healthcare we advise you to contact a provider within the Hearing Choice Network. Hearing Choice only offers to you an endorsed Provider for your hearing healthcare. Allow your provider to perform the adequate diagnostics to learn why you have a hearing loss before you receive any options or solutions for rehabilitation with hearing devices. Have your provider choose the appropriate technology and solution for you after your consultation and do not compromise your hearing healthcare without knowing your condition.