Obtaining Hearing Aids at Chicago Dizziness and Hearing

Heather Rudisill, AuD Page last modified: January 21, 2008

Chicago Dizziness and Hearing dispense a wide variety of hearing aids including the most advanced technology currently available. The audiologists select hearing aids specific to a patient’s hearing loss and individual lifestyle.

1.          Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation

You will first need to have your hearing tested. The hearing test will provide a starting point for determining hearing aid candidacy.  A current hearing test (performed within 6 months) is needed to be fit with a hearing aid.

2.          Hearing Aid Evaluation

This appointment allows you the opportunity to sit down with the audiologist and discuss the different styles and circuitry available in hearing aids today. A spouse or family member is welcome during the hearing aid selection process. This appointment is scheduled for 60 minutes to allow an appropriate amount of time for discussion.

A decision will be made as to which hearing aid (or aids) is most appropriate based on your hearing loss and individual, specific listening demands.

• Impression(s) of the ear(s) will be taken at this time, if needed.
• Additional testing in the sound booth may be done at this time.
• A hearing aid evaluation fee will be charged at this time ($100). This fee covers the hearing aid selection process, the earmold impression(s), and a 30-day trial period.  Most insurance policies do NOT cover this fee.

·       Half of the cost of the hearing aid(s) that you select will also be due at this time. Most insurance companies, including Medicare, do NOT cover the cost of hearing aids.

3.          Hearing Aid Fitting

Two to three weeks after the selection, you will return for the hearing aid fitting. This appointment is also scheduled for 60 minutes. At this time, you will be instructed regarding the proper care, use, and maintenance of the hearing instrument(s).

Expectations and initial experiences will be discussed.

·       A 30-day trial period will begin at this time. The next month will allow you time to experience everyday situations and determine the benefit of the hearing aid(s). The opportunity to return the hearing aids for refund or exchange the hearing aids for another model is available during this time period should you not be pleased with your experiences.  

·       The remaining payment for the hearing aid(s) is expected at this time. All policies and procedures will be reviewed in detail by the audiologist.

4.       Hearing Aid Checks

After your hearing aid fitting, future follow-up appointments will be scheduled. There are “hearing aid check” appointments at 2 and 4 weeks following the fitting to help fine-tune the hearing aids and improve benefit.