Tuesday 9 September 2014

The Costs of Hearing Aids Explained

Last month I was asked by a new patient why hearing aids are more expensive than glasses and I realised that my answers to this question may help others too.  This subject has evolved into this feature, highlighting this topic and that hearing aids are 'a quality of life' purchase, an investment for the future.

To assist with understanding it's important to begin by saying that at a company such as my own we have over 300 different hearing aids that we can prescribe to the hearing impaired. A massive choice that many of you may not realise is available, ranging from £250-£2500. In a nutshell, there is something for everyone's pocket, and for the majority of hearing losses and lifestyles. The pricing is inclusive; in other words, the limitless aftercare programme is included for the entire warranty period of the instrument ranging from two years to five years.  Another way of explaining this is to say 'no hidden charges anywhere'!

If you split up the cost per day over a minimum of five years it becomes pennies per day and when comparing the cost of a cup of coffee it brings totally into focus the meaning of a worthwhile investment.

Hearing aid manufacturers spend millions of pounds every year developing major advances in hearing aid technology. For example, this year saw the introduction of the Resound Linx hearing aid used in conjunction with Apple iPhone and iPad smart devices. None of the research and development costs are met by the Government and therefore costs at some point fall onto the end user.

Buying online
A hearing instrument is a complex medically-prescribed device that needs to be fitted properly by a qualified audiology professional. Although it can be tempting to shop online for cheap hearing aids, I would discourage you from doing so.

Buying a device online and expecting your hearing problems to be solved is comparable to buying braces online and expecting them to straighten your teeth!

You could potentially waste your money on a device that doesn't meet your hearing needs, poorly fits the ear itself and comes with no way of adjusting to obtain the best results for you.

Furthermore you will miss out on the care, service and support of a professional audiologist!