{"id":443,"date":"2017-03-09T10:15:19","date_gmt":"2017-03-09T18:15:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/fuelvet.com\/~todayshe\/?p=443"},"modified":"2023-09-07T12:59:54","modified_gmt":"2023-09-07T17:59:54","slug":"the-who-and-where-of-hearing-aid-buying","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tohear.com\/the-who-and-where-of-hearing-aid-buying\/","title":{"rendered":"The Who and Where of Hearing Aid Buying"},"content":{"rendered":"
Once you (or more likely numerous family members) have decided it is time for you to get your hearing checked, the options of where to go and who to see may be overwhelming. Knowing the differences can help make the decision clear as day. There are two types of hearing professionals: hearing instrument specialists and audiologists. While both can help you decide which hearing aid to buy, the titles are not created equal.<\/p>\n
The best audiologists in the west Houston, Texas area are licensed and certified professionals who have earned a master\u2019s or doctoral degree in the field of audiology. They are certified and licensed to practice by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)<\/a>. Audiologists are trained to diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders, perform comprehensive hearing evaluations, fit hearing devices and counsel patients and their families on communication strategies.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hearing Instrument Specialists are only required to have completed high school or, in some states, possess a two-year degree. In addition, they must pass a written and practical exam to earn a state license. They are trained solely in the interpretation of hearing assessment instrumentation, hearing device electronics and specifications and programming hearing aids.<\/p>\n As you can see, if you want someone to be able to identify, diagnose and treat your hearing loss, a Houston audiologist is the best choice.<\/p>\n Besides choosing which professional to see, you will also have to decide where to buy your hearing aid. Big box retailers may seem like an appealing choice, as they often advertise low prices and no wait time. Unfortunately, they fail to mention their outdated options, one-size-fits-all process and lack of proper follow-up appointments, which are crucial to ensure your hearing aid works well.<\/p>\n