If you watch TV, you have likely seen commercials touting itty bitty hearing aids offering better hearing for astoundingly low prices. So why see a hearing care provider when these options are discreet, available from the comfort of your couch, and a fraction of the cost of what you might otherwise pay in office?
Often these “as seen on TV” devices aren’t hearing aids at all! Pay attention to the specific language they use…. While the device may “aid” your hearing, they are often assistive devices known as personal sound amplifiers (PSAPs). These devices are not regulated by the FDA and typically work by bringing up the volume of ALL sounds. This means soft sound may be more audible, but loud noises and background sounds may become unbearable. These options are affordable, typically costing only a few hundred dollars. These devices are not approved to treat hearing loss but may help when communicating with someone who has a hearing loss if they do not have access to hearing aids.
In recent years, the FDA signed into law the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act, making OTC hearing aids available to consumers as of October 2022. These are more sophisticated than personal sound amplifiers, and costs are slightly higher, ranging from several hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars per pair. These devices are available without a prescription to individuals 18+ but have safety limits in place. OTC hearing aids are appropriate for individuals with a perceived mild to moderate hearing loss and typically require some tech know-how as many require pairing to phone to make app-based adjustments.
So why see a professional?
Like many “as seen on TV” products, the performance doesn’t always live up to the reality of your needs. Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Hearing professionals have an arsenal of different prescription hearing aid styles, sizes, colors, and strengths. Prescription devices require a complete hearing assessment within the past 6 months and are programmed by a hearing care professional to match the user’s individual hearing loss.
So what should you expect to pay for these prescription devices? The answer is, it depends. Many insurance companies offer benefits or discount programs which significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost to the consumer. For many people with insurance, the cost of a prescription device is comparable or even less than the cost to pursue the “as seen on TV” aids. If you have no insurance, prices vary depending on the level of technology. At Gardner Audiology we have options starting as low as $595 per ear to just under $3000 per ear. It is important to remember that this cost doesn’t just include a prescription hearing aid; the cost reflects the knowledge and expertise of a licensed hearing care professional to deliver a prescription fit and to support on your hearing healthcare journey.
If you’re considering hearing aids, experience the best of the best difference by scheduling an appointment with us. Call 800-277-1182 or schedule online.
