There are now many hearing aids available from web based companies. The value is compelling. The way to choose is to look at the service offering – look at the reviews, particularly around the service.
Don’t be put off by scaremongering stories from high street hearing aid providers telling you that you will have no support. That may be true of some providers on the Internet. It’s certainly not true of us at Blamey Saunders where we are able to look after our clients where-ever they are, providing they have an internet connection. Tele-health, done well, can indeed be much better than face to face, due to the availability and convenience of the service. At our company, clients are supported, not just by an audiologist, but a whole team of experts.
One would hope that audiologists outside of our company would realise that they now have opportunity to be really valued for their skills, by separating hearing aid sales from their professional services, and by providing audiological support for people who have bought hearing aids on line. Audiologists say that the value of their services lie in the counselling; testing and diagnosis, making earmoulds, advising on hearing and listening strategies. If this is the case, why should they care where you bought your hearing aid? If you are refused any of these services by an audiologist, I suggest you report them. Our professional opinions are the value we bring (I’m a PhD audiologist too).
The reason that hearing aid set-up has been wrapped in mystique is because traditionally they are set up in a very complicated way. It needn’t be that way, as we have shown to our many happy clients. Hearing aids need to make sounds audible and comfortable. That sounds completely obvious doesn’t it? Most of the hearing aid industry has only just discovered this, it seems. But, hey, this is 2013. Don’t you expect technology to be easier to use? Or do you call in a professional photographer every time you want to snap the family birthday party?
Let’s be honest. The myths are busted – you don’t need to pay so much for hearing aids any more. Recognise the rhetoric from the high street retailers for what it is, and do your research to get the best buys.
Great disruption Elaine! I appreciated your de-shrouding one of our medical sectors. I think the high academic status behind the medical industry makes it a prime target for making things look a certain way and perpetuating assumptions.
Great disruption Elaine! I appreciated your de-shrouding one of our medical sectors. I think the high academic status behind the medical industry makes it a prime target for making things look a certain way and perpetuating assumptions by people who’s interested are being over-served.
Good advice Elaine. I enjoyed reading this.