Choosing an Audiologist

By May 9, 2018Quick Links

Choosing an Audiologist

Quick Links | One Comment

The first step for many people addressing their hearing loss is a visit to an audiologist. Below are a few steps to keep in mind in order to get the most out of your visit to an audiologist.

The most important thing to remember when visiting an audiologist is that many of them are for-profit businesses. This means they may be incentivised to sell you a more expensive or particular branded product. Some audiologists have sales targets, work off commission or are owned by companies that manufacture hearing aids. More detailed information about this can be found on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission website.

  1. Discuss your hearing issue with your GP first as it may not be permanent or may require different treatment.
  2. If you get a hearing test through your audiologist ask for a copy of your audiogram and ask them to explain it to you. You can take your audiogram to other audiologists to get a second opinion, if you wish.
  3. Take your time. Ask for detailed quotes, compare different offers and do your research.
  4. Consider exactly what you want from your device. Many will have different features for different situations and conditions.
  5. Some people like to go to their audiologist with a trusted friend or relative.
  6. Write down key points from your visit to refer to later.
  7. If you don’t understand something, keep asking for clarification until you do understand.
  8. If you feel that you have been treated unfairly by an audiologist contact the ACCC for further advice.

A great resource if you want some more information is the Independent Audiologists Australia website.

When you feel that you are ready to book an audiologist appointment have a look at our service directory to find one near you.

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