Hearing Aids Cost How Much?
One reason that hearing aids seem expensive these days is that consumers are comparing apples to oranges. The technology has changed drastically in the last 40 years. Hearing aids were about the size of a deck of cards, spewing feedback and randomly generated noise directly into the ear canal, connected by wires from shirt pocket to ear piece and looked like a huge piece of hardware hanging from the ear. But that was then. This is now.
The Hearing Ear Computer
Today's hearing devices are modern marvels of digital technology - devices that deliver a more natural hearing experience, more user-controlled options, more comfort and a wider assortment of styles from BTE, behind the ear units to In The Canal (ITC) - units that are nearly invisible.
Hearing aids are micro-computers capable of detecting ambient sound levels and adjusting themselves accordingly. Other features include multiple settings memory, directional microphones, background noise cancellation, the elimination of feedback even when the user is talking on the telephone, wireless capabilities and a host of other automated convenience features so users aren't constantly adjusting their hearing amplifiers.
Cost Factors
There are several factors that affect the cost of today's ear computer including:
-Low number of users (if we all wore them, they would cost less per unit)
-Customization of each device to fit the needs of the user
-Manufacturing process
- Research costs
-Time with the audiologist
Low number of users
The hearing aid industry operates in a high-tech, low-volume marketplace. Only about 2% of the U.S. population uses hearing aids. So, while your hearing aid may use some of the same technology as an iPod, 14 million iPods were sold during the holiday season alone. With increased volume of hearing aid sales, manufacturers could lower the per unit price.
Customization of the device
The days of popping in some batteries, plugging the earpiece into the ear and off you go are long gone. Today, hearing aids come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. That means that if you opt for an ITC unit, the audiologist makes an impression of your ear canal that gets sent off to the manufacturer where your unit is custom built by a higly-trained technician to the specifications of the audiologist. Custom hearing aids are built individually by hand, with up to 50 people involved.
Research and manufacturing costs
Hearing aid manufacturers spend millions and millions of dollars on the development of new and better models of hearing aids. It is a highly competitive marketplace so keeping up with the competition is critical to long-term company success.
In addition, new hearing aids undergo rigorous laboratory and field-testing by the manufacturers to ensure that they do what they are supposed to do. The good news is manufacturers are able to provide warranties for both new and repaired devices.
The audiologist
A professional audiologist is crucial to the successful choice and fitting of a patient's hearing aid. These hearing health professionals conduct hearing tests, take ear impressions, and fit the hearing aids, adjust hearing aid settings, and clean and maintain hearing aids. Audiologists also have to stay current on new products and the continued advances in technology.
Money-saving tips
You may want to think twice about cutting corners on a hearing device. Hearing aids are a high-tech device that, unlike a toaster, will improve the quality of your life and those around you. It is an expensive option but the payoff is much improved, hassle-free hearing. However, there are some steps to keep costs under control.
Important features to consider are:
-number of channels (how much sound information can the unit process)
-noise reduction technology (eliminates distracting background noise
-integration with wireless technologies such as Bluetooth (increases convenience and functionality within different sound environments)
-automated controls
-directional microphones
-style cachet
Quality performance costs more. Better hearing aids make adjustments to sound 1000 times a second to provide that natural listening experience wearers want!
Hearing Aid Express can help you select the best hearing aid for your budget. And while the initial cost of a hearing aid may make you think twice, this is a quality of life for you and those around you. So get yourself plugged in with the best hearing device at Hearing Aid Express. You will be glad you spent a little extra for the convenience and quality that today's hearing aids deliver.
At Hearing Aid Express, you will find that we have some of the most competitive prices around. We feel that the high cost of hearing aids shouldn't deter you from getting quality service. We always offer FREE hearing tests, FREE reprogramming with purchase, FREE cleanings and adjustments, and FREE digital demonstration. We pride ourselves on our ability to handle the needs of our customers in an effective and friendly way.
There are no extra fees ever, our dispensing fees are reasonable and reusable, we carry generic brands and we have published price sheets available that additional discounts are based on. We are a member of the Better Business Bureau and we would truly appreciate your consideration.
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