Hearing Aids Frequently Asked Questions

---

Several things can cause a hearing loss. Here are just a few:

• Aging-also known as presbycusis. As we age, we can naturally lose some of our hearing.
• Noise Induced-exposure to loud noises over a lifetime can lead to hearing loss.
• Earwax- a buildup of earwax can block sound from reaching your brain by reducing sound waves.
• Ear infections and tumors- Repeated ear infections or tumors can cause a hearing loss. An ENT referral would be needed. 
• Some medications- long term use of certain medications can lead to a hearing loss. It is best to address this with your primary care physician if you are uncertain if your medication is contributing to your hearing loss.

Simply put, we are designed to hear better with two ears. Your brain is made to process and analyze sound coming into both ears. If there is a hearing loss in both ears, you will hear better with two hearing aids. There are a few exceptions to this. Your hearing specialist will discuss whether one or two hearing aids will best fit your needs.

With new laws and regulations allowing the appearance of over the counter (OTC) hearing devices and usually at a lower price, it will be important for the consumer to aware that these are not made for everyone. OTC hearing devices are for patients who may have a mild to moderate hearing loss. A hearing test is usually not required to purchase these. Medical quality hearing aids are normally provided by a hearing aid specialist, audiologist, and some ENTs. A hearing test is normally done and the hearing aids are customized to your hearing loss and programmed for your lifestyle. 

Almost all hearing device manufacturers have different technology levels. The following is how they are usually broken down:

• Economy/Essential-very basic with not a lot frills and fancies. Typically suited for those with a very sedentary lifestyle.
• Standard-designed for those who may go into different environments every now and then, but who mostly avoid crowds or overly noisy situations.
• Advanced- advanced level technology made for an moderately active lifestyle. Has some automated features to help enhance the hearing experience in different listening situations.
• Premium- made to provide the most technology so that the patient wearing them can live a very active lifestyle. Perfect for the patient who is still very social and enjoys to engage in concerts, theatre, or crowded events. Also, the most suitable for those in an ever changing work environment. 

The cost of hearing aids vary greatly depending on whether you choose OTC or traditional hearing aids from a licensed provider. The cost will also depend on what technology level you choose. However, the typical range can be anywhere from $500 to over $5000. It is best to have your hearing tested and speak to a professional who can assist you in deciding which hearing aid is going to best serve your needs.

Our hearing access program* provides those with another option when an insurance benefit may not be an option. The advanced hearing aid program provides you advanced level hearing aids at a price of only $1999/pair! Our premium program will provide you with premium level hearing aids at a cost of $2699/pair! If you need financing, we can assist you with that as well. 

All patients in the hearing access program also receive:

• Free loaners should the hearing aids need repair
• Lifetime service
• Hearing aid test drive
• Modern Technology
• Free upgrade to rechargeable
• 3 year manufacturer warranty
• 3 year loss and damage warranty

*Not affiliated with insurance plans. 

The following are reasons to seek ENT cousel:

• Sudden hearing loss in the last 90 days
• Ear pain
• Drainage within the last 90 days
• Excessive ear wax buildup or foreign body in the ear canal
• Unilateral hearing loss within the last 90 days
• Acute or chronic dizziness
• Traumatic or congenital deformity
• Recent traumatic injury

Southern Home Hearing LLC was created in response to Covid. Many individuals did not want to go into an office setting. We also recognized that there was a lot of patients who just could not get out due to being disabled or unable to drive. As a result, Southern Home Hearing uses a mobile only platform. There are currently no offices available; however, this may change in the future.

The hearing evaluation is free of charge.  A trip charge of $30 is required at time of visit. This is to offset the cost of travel and time included to do so. However, the provider may choose to waive this fee at their discretion.

A 3rd party provider is a company contracted with some insurance groups that provide discounted hearing aids based upon an individuals expected benefit. Often time the 3rd party is owned by the same manufacturer from which they provide hearing aids. An example of this is TruHearing, which is owned by Sivantos; who also owns Signia hearing aids. 3rd parties may benefit some patients more than others based on expected insurance benefits. If you are unsure, talk to you hearing provider and determine which route is best for you.