How to make the best use of your time with an Audiologist

This following is a compliation of information presented by Marcia B. Dugan at the 14th SHHH International Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana

1.  Make a list of all the situations where you have difficulty hearing and understanding conversation.
2.  Tell the audiologist about any medication you take regularly, especially ones that might be ototoxic.
3.  Ask the audiologist to explain the tests performed during the evaluation and what the results indicate.
4.  Ask for a copy of your audiogram.
5.  Become an educated consumer.  Ask for information abou the various kinds of hearing aids, how they will help you and what their limitations are and the pros and cons of different makes and models and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
6.  Ask about various options available in the hearing instrument such as a T-switch or direct audio imput.
7.  Read the sales contract carefully.
8.  Ask about other costs.
9.  Find out about education and aural rehabilitation services.
10.Be critical but realistic.
11.Bring a friend or family member along with you to take notes and perhaps pick up information that you may miss.  This benefits both you and the audiologist.
If you are not comfortable with the advice or recommendations you get, find someone you do like and with whom you are confortable.  You and only you can judge how you like a hearing health care provider, your hearing aid and the advice and service you receive.
You should expect your health care provider to have the following skills and attitude
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Competency
  • Adequate diagnostic and testing equipment
  • Selection assistance
  • Education and rehabilitation services
  • Pricing and service policies
  • Parking facilities

The sales contract should include the following
  • Price
  • Payment agreement
  • Trial period
  • What is refundable
  • Rehabilitation services
  • Warranty
  • Insurance coverage

You should remember that people dispensing hearing aids are interested in making a profit on the product.  Price should not be your main consideration.  Performance and your ability to understand speech are the most important considerations.