What to expect from your hearing appointment

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The initial step in looking after your hearing is to schedule an appointment or request a call back with a qualified hearing care professional. During your consultation, you can discuss your treatment options and find out which type of hearing aids would be most suitable for you.

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Does hearing consultation involve a hearing test?

Although hearing consultations and hearing tests are distinct, your consultation will very likely include a hearing test. In addition to the hearing test, your consultation offers an opportunity to discuss your hearing concerns with a qualified professional. They will ask questions to identify the most suitable hearing tests and treatment options for your specific symptoms.

What is the cost of a hearing consultation?

At EarPros, we provide complimentary hearing assessments as a fundamental service. We strongly advocate for regular hearing check-ups to uphold optimal hearing health and guarantee the efficacy of hearing aids. Our free appointments facilitate the prompt detection of any hearing changes and enable adjustments to your hearing solutions based on your current requirements.

30 minutes

the duration of hearing consultations typically varies between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

Get ready for your hearing consultation

Transitioning to a new hearing aid starts with an initial appointment with an audiologist, which is crucial. Audiologists play a fundamental role throughout the fitting process, leveraging their expertise, experience, and personalized approach to enhance the lives of those with hearing impairments. Key responsibilities of an audiologist include:

  • Thorough Evaluation: Audiologists conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' hearing abilities, considering their individual requirements and lifestyle. Using tests like pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry, they assess the extent and nature of hearing loss.
  • Hearing Aid Recommendation: Based on assessment findings, audiologists utilize their in-depth knowledge of hearing aid technology to suggest the most appropriate devices. Factors such as the severity of hearing loss, communication needs, and personal preferences are taken into account.
  • Personalization and Configuration: Audiologists tailor hearing aids to suit each patient's specific needs, adjusting settings such as volume, frequency response, and noise reduction for optimal performance and comfort.
  • Verification and Adjustment: Following the initial fitting, audiologists verify the effectiveness of the hearing aids using real-ear measurements. This ensures that the devices deliver suitable amplification tailored to the individual's ear canal characteristics. Additionally, audiologists collaborate closely with patients to fine-tune the devices, addressing any concerns or challenges they may encounter.

What is the duration of a hearing consultation?

The duration of a hearing consultation varies, usually lasting between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your medical history and inquiries. These meetings are informal and serve as an opportunity to become acquainted with your hearing care professional.

What information should I bring to my appointment?

During your consultation, your hearing care specialist will inquire about your medical history, yet this is just one aspect of the information they require. Discuss how your daily life is impacted by symptoms of hearing loss, particularly in social interactions and activities. Do you encounter loud noises at work or in your personal life, or do you generally lead a quieter lifestyle?

This insight aids the specialist in forming a comprehensive understanding of your needs to tailor treatment accordingly. Seize the opportunity to address any queries regarding hearing loss treatment, including suitable hearing aid options, associated costs, and alternative treatments. Consider preparing a list of questions to ensure you receive all the information you seek.

 

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Tips for adapting to your new hearing aid

Getting accustomed to a new hearing aid is a gradual journey. Adapting to the different sounds may require some time, and it could take several months for your hearing to fully adjust.

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What does the hearing care professional do?

Your hearing care professional will explain how the ear functions, helping you understand the potential causes of your hearing loss and how different treatment options could assist. They will examine your ears using an otoscope to detect signs of infection, excess wax, or blockages that could contribute to your hearing issues. Depending on the practice, you may have the chance to trial a selection of hearing aids to gauge their impact on your hearing.

Next in line: follow-up appointments

Follow-up appointments are vital for the ongoing success of adapting to hearing aids. They allow hearing care professionals to track progress, make necessary adjustments, and address any new concerns. Key benefits include:

  • Continuity and Improvement: These appointments ensure consistent care and enable adjustments to treatments based on individual progress.
  • Early Detection: Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early, leading to timely interventions and better outcomes.
  • Monitoring and Tweaks: These sessions evaluate treatment effectiveness through tests and patient feedback, enabling adjustments as needed.
  • Collaboration and Involvement: Involving patients in decision-making during follow-ups offers insight into their experiences and preferences.
  • Addressing Concerns: Follow-up meetings provide a platform for patients to voice concerns, fostering active listening and problem-solving.
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