Compare Quotes From Different Hearing Centres When You Need Hearing Aids

Purchasing a hearing aid should receive the same type of attention and effort that you would undoubtedly dedicate to buying a home or a new car, booking a trip/vacation, or selecting a venue for a reception. Sure, you will want to pay the lowest price whenever possible, but it is equally important, if not more important, that you are comfortable with the product/service itself – and that you are getting full value for your dollar investment.

Hearing centres will vary in terms of pricing structures, available services, and policies. When you are in the market for hearing aids, shopping for quotes from several different hearing centres is just good consumer diligence. In this case, since you are dealing with a matter relating to your overall health and lifestyle, thorough research and homework should be non-negotiable.

When shopping for quotes from different hearing centres, examine these key aspects:

• The actual cost – including the hearing aids, supplies, and admin fees
• Special offers (and any restrictions or terms and conditions)
• The types and price ranges of their hearing aids
• Range of manufacturers – all major brands offered or just a select few?
• Payment plan options
• Health care plans accepted – including Veteran’s Affairs, WSIB, etc.
• Any other services offered (and associated costs)
• Professional staff on site – audiologists, ENTs, and hearing instrument specialists

After investigating or researching all of the above, perhaps the ultimate factor would be the willingness of the hearing centre to provide the type or style of hearing aids that aligns with your specific hearing needs and your budget.

Important Factors To Consider Before Purchasing Your Hearing Aids

For some people, the purchase of a hearing aid may be dependent upon:

• Vanity (the size of the device should be as small as possible so it is not visible)
• Budget (consider insurance coverage and your own out of pocket expenses)
• Compliance (the hearing centre knows best – I will get whatever they suggest)
• Denial (I don’t think I need a hearing aid, so the cheapest one will be just fine)

To base your purchase on more prudent and practical factors, consider the following:

• Primary listening environment – is it generally noisier or relatively quiet?
• Degree of hearing loss – obtain a current hearing evaluation
• Lifestyle preferences – are you more active or more sedentary?
• Dexterity – your ability to manage the device’s size, volume controls and batteries
• Trial period – is one available/allowed and for what length of time?
• Guarantees and warrantees – are they included and what exactly do they cover?
• Other services offered/other costs – batteries, walk-in adjustments and repairs?
• Insurance coverage – what percentage of the cost, if any, is covered?

Purchasing a hearing aid requires a significant investment of time to ensure that your decision addresses your particular hearing loss along with your lifestyle needs, personal comfort, and budget.

If you are looking for high quality hearing aids that meet all of these parameters, call Bravo Hearing Centre today at 416-207-9711 to speak with a hearing aid specialist and get the right solution for you!