Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an audiologist?
- What is an Au.D.?
- Does Medicare pay for hearing tests?
- Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
- How much do hearing aids cost?
- Can hearing aids help “nerve deafness?”
- Can I get just one hearing aid though I have a hearing loss in both ears?
- How long do hearing aids last before they must be replaced?
- Is getting a hearing aid the only thing that can be done for a hearing loss?
1. What is an audiologist?
Audiologists are highly trained professionals who hold a Master’s Degree or Doctorate in Audiology and/or Communication Disorders from regionally accredited universities. They are trained in the prevention, diagnosis, management, and non-medical treatment of hearing and balance disorders in adults and children.
2. What is an Au.D.?
The Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology degree. It is a professional doctorate degree, and is now the entry-level degree required to practice audiology in Georgia and many other states.
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3. Does Medicare pay for hearing tests?
Medicare does not pay for routine hearing tests (i.e. audiological evaluations). However, if a written referral is obtained from a physician because of a medical concern, prior to seeing the audiologist, Medicare will pay its portion of an evaluation.
4. Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
According to current federal law, Medicare is specifically prohibited from paying for hearing aids.
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5. How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing instrument prices vary by technology and the services that are included with the purchase. Depending on the type and degree of hearing loss and each individual’s specific needs, the most appropriate hearing instrument will vary from person to person. The most appropriate hearing device is recommended for each individual while providing the options necessary to meet that individual’s budget.
6. Can hearing aids help “nerve deafness?”
Years ago many professionals were taught that hearing loss from “nerve damage” could not be helped with hearing aids. At the time, that was often true due to the technological limitations of early hearing aids. Today, however, there are very few people who cannot be helped with hearing aids. In fact, 95% of individuals who wear hearing aids have so-called “nerve deafness.”
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7. Can I get just one hearing aid though I have a hearing loss in both ears?
Yes, but generally speaking, we simply hear better with two ears (i.e. binaural hearing) than with one, so typically two hearing aids are recommended when there is a hearing loss in both ears. There are four main reasons why binaural hearing is superior to hearing with one dominant ear. These reasons are: better hearing in noisy environments, improved localization ability, improved signal versus noise level from optimizing position, and possible deterioration of the unaided ear.
8. How long do hearing aids last before they must be replaced?
The average life of a hearing aid is approximately 6 years. There are many variables which affect the life of a hearing aid such as: ear wax, perspiration, moisture and humidity, hairspray and aerosols, proper handling of the instruments, and having them cleaned on a routine basis.
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9. Is getting a hearing aid the only thing that can be done for a hearing loss?
No, not necessarily. Some forms of hearing loss can be treated medically or surgically while some hearing losses are better treated with hearing devices. When a person’s hearing is evaluated, the nature and degree of their hearing loss is determined and they are advised whether or not they need referral to a physician for medical management, or if hearing instruments are appropriate for their loss.
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