You’ve often heard you get what you pay for. That’s definitely true when it comes to hearing aid technology. Almost all patients are concerned about the cost of hearing aids, and reasonably so. Hearing aids are a significant investment in your health. But what should you expect to pay for hearing aids in 2019? And what do you get for those dollars? Those are great questions we’ll attempt to answer in this blog post.
Pros and Cons of Different Level Hearing Aids
Hearing aids come in a wide range of styles and technology levels to fit every budget. Don’t rule hearing aids out as an option solely on budget if you are having difficulty hearing. Better hearing can improve your quality of life, while poor hearing has been linked to other critical health issues, such as dementia and diabetes. Below, we compare a variety of hearing aids in different price ranges:
Entry-level hearing aids at a professional practice such as Associated Audiologists should run approximately $675 each. Keep in mind that similar to computer or cell phone technology, today’s entry-level hearing aids were considered top-of-the-line five to seven years ago. That means entry-level technology that is well-programmed by a doctoral-level audiologist using real-ear verification can offer you a significant improvement in your hearing and may meet your needs.
Mid-level hearing aids with more sophisticated features typically run $1,500 to $1,900 each. These hearing aids can offer faster digital processing and are programmable for the environments where you frequently have more problems hearing, like in restaurants or on the golf course. Other accessories, such as streamers, can help improve talking on the phone or listening to the television.
Premium hearing aids offer the most advanced technology and run approximately $2,600 to $2,800 each, or $5,200 for a pair. These hearing aids may utilize built-in Bluetooth technology to stream phone calls and television programs directly to your hearing aids. Some feature applications that use machine learning or artificial intelligence, and which learn the settings you prefer in specific environments, then automatically switch to those whenever you enter that location. Often, most of these hearing aids have features that are accessible when paired with a smartphone.
Consider the Level of Service
The audiologist you choose to work with should discuss your budget and goals, as well as provide you with a written estimate of their recommendations. One of the trade-offs between entry-level and premium-level hearing aids, for example, may be the level of service included. Entry-level hearing aids may not include additional adjustments or follow-up appointments. These are paid for as separate office visits when needed, while premium technology may include warranties and follow-up appointments for check-ups, adjustments and monitoring your hearing for the first year.
Health Insurance May Help Cover Costs
If you have health insurance other than Medicare, you may have hearing aid coverage that could help with the costs. Ask if the practice you are seeing will investigate whether or not your particular plan has coverage and will help you understand and coordinate any possible benefits. Associated Audiologists provides this service.
Financing Can Make Hearing Aids More Affordable
And finally, ask about financing options for individuals who qualify. Associated Audiologists offers CareCredit, as well as financing with Wells Fargo, plus we accept all major credit cards as payment. For those who do not have the financial resources to cover the cost of new hearing aids, ask about the possibility of purchasing a refurbished set of hearing aids. Bottom line, hearing aids come in a wide range of prices and styles for every budget and lifestyle.
