Buying Hearing Aids From A Clinic

This is the method that people are familiar with as it has been the process for many years. The advent of online purchasing now challenges this model. However, it’s worthwhile looking at how purchasing a hearing aid from a clinic works.

What are you paying for?

Depending on the size of the clinic, you’ll be paying for a number of items. The hearing device is the main factor in the cost, but you’re also paying for other things – including overheads, particularly if it’s a big company. These overheads can include staff not seen in the clinic. For a smaller, independent clinic, you’ll be paying for the staff you see in the clinic. This is usually the Audiologists and/or Audiometrists and any reception staff.

Hearing Aids

The cost of the hearing aid will depend on a number of things: the brand, the level of technology and any arrangements the Hearing Clinic has with the manufacturer.

Batteries

These are factored into the cost, along with wax filters if required. A repair and maintenance program is also included in the cost.

​Trial period

Like buying on line, you should be offered a trial period of your hearing aids. The length of the trial is individual to the clinic and should be made clear before you purchase your hearing aids. The trial period is important for you to consider the benefits you’re gaining from your hearing aid. Hearing aids are a high cost item so you want to ensure you’re getting value for your money.

At the end of your trial period you should have the following three options:

• If you’re happy with your hearing aids, finalise your fitting and any necessary paperwork and keep wearing your hearing aids successfully!
• Return your hearing aids if you’re not happy with them and get a refund.
• Discuss your options with your HHP if you’re not happy with your hearing aids but wish to continue with hearing devices. This could include trialling a different hearing aid.

Return your hearing aids if they’re not performing as you wish. Don’t be forced in to accepting hearing devices that you’re not happy with.

Warranty

Most hearing aid manufacturers offer a three year warranty in the price of their hearing devices. This covers most minor repairs and maintenance over the period of the warranty. Check what isn’t covered in the cost of the warranty – this could include being chewed by the dog, getting the hearing aid wet (putting them through the washing machine or swimming with them), lost or theft. Once you’re clear on what the warranty covers, make sure you cover your hearing aids for other incidents, such as mentioned above, in your home insurance policy.

You can discuss your warranty length with the Hearing Clinic you purchase the devices through. There may be an option to purchase a longer warranty.