3 Steps to Better Hearing

Step 1

Otoscopy (looking in the ear canal) for any visible obstruction/damage. The hearing test is conducted in a sound treated booth. Headphones or inserts are used for air conduction and speech testing. A bone oscillator is placed behind the ear for bone conduction testing. Tones are presented to the person, varying in both pitch and loudness. A pushbutton is given to the person to respond to the tones. Responses are then plotted on an audiogram (hearing test results). Impedance testing is done to determine the status of the eardrum and middle ear. Results are explained, no waiting.

Step 2

Once a hearing loss is identified, a Hearing Aid Evaluation (HAE) will be scheduled. All options are discussed: the person's hearing loss, lifestyle, personal hearing needs, and budget are considered. The pros and cons of different style options, sophistication of different levels of technology, optional features such as remotes, FMs, are explained. Once hearing aid(s) are chosen, ear impression(s) will be taken.

Step 3

Hearing Aids are programmed to fit the person’s hearing loss and lifestyle with Real Ear measurements including patient’s comments. Instructions on the Care & Maintenance are provided. Counseling for optimal benefit is given. A one month trial period is given. After the one month trial, the patient returns for final adjustments. If a person cannot adjust or cope (negligible minority), a different style can be chosen or the hearing aids can be returned.