Over Counter Hearing Devices

We at Professional Hearing Associates believe in upholding the gold standard in hearing healthcare. Our team of Certified Doctors of Audiology have many years of experience with hearing and balance related disorders. Recently there has been the introduction of (OTC’s) Over the Counter Hearing Devices. In our clinics, Dr. Hopper and Dr. Cramer are asked at times about these so we thought it would be good for the readers and public to give some answers to some of those questions presented to us.

person’s lifestyle. Some of these additional options include over the counter hearing devices. Over the counter devices have been around for many years already. They just came to the forefront recently by a congressional bill that was passed to allow them to be sold directly to the consumer. We at Professional Hearing Associates, certainly do not object to

Over the counter hearing aid technology and feel that some of these may in fact help those that otherwise couldn’t afford

Hearing loss, as many have read, can lead to social isolation, cognitive decline, and a higher risk for Alzheimer’s. Some hearing devices can be quite expensive, but there are always other options for less advanced and more cost effective solutions based on a the more advanced hearing solutions. We carry over the counter hearing aids in our office. They are designed for patients with minimal hearing loss and can be purchased just as you would get them from a large retailer.

Some questions that have been presented to the Dr Hopper and Dr Cramer about OTC’s are:

But how do I know if the overthe-counter hearing aids will work for me? And as a patient, how do I make that decision?

ANSWER: Hearing loss can be a significant quality of life issue for many patients. There are MANY advantages to visiting an Audiology or Otolaryngology practice. However, those with borderline hearing loss that need “limited help” and are not quite at the stage of the traditional hearing devices, may see a benefit to those devices. Think of them like “cheater” Glasses. They are good for some situations but not all.

If I get the Over the counter devices, who can I count on for help?

ANSWER: The simple answer to that is no one really. Some major companies will offer limited support then after a certain period offer support paid by the hour. These again are devices that are for minimal hearing losses and are regulated for certain output control. If you get these off a shelf, you as a patient will have to navigate the usage and control of them. Most patients that we see don’t need the help yet, so we monitor their hearing annually for any change.

Do these devices come with warranties etc since they are cheaper?

ANSWER: Of course they will/ should come with some type of warranty. However, make sure that you read the details because some will not cover the wear and tear of them caused by wax and moisture possibly. What is the difference between hearing solutions and devices you prescribe at Professional Hearing Associates and the ones I just get over the counter?

ANSWER: The simple answer is quality, experience, and professional personal interaction. We make sure as Doctors of Audiology, to work with your primary care physician and their office or ENT to make sure that every detail of the ear is examined and treated. From the otoscopic video inspection of the ear all the way through the counseling after the entire exam is completed we will make sure that you personally receive the most professional, caring, hearing healthcare approach around. With over 50 years of combined Audiology experience between Dr. Hopper and Dr. Cramer, they will work with your insurance, work with your lifestyle, and work with YOU as the patient to help you find the best hearing care solution to meet your lifestyle and needs. Once you visit one of our three locations, you will see why we continue to be voted the best hearing clinic year after year.

Please give us a call at (618) 4664444 to set up an appointment to discuss any hearing concerns you or a loved one may have.

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