Chances are some of your friends and neighbors have already been diagnosed with hearing loss and would be happy to recommend their hearing specialist. Ask if they are satisfied with the quality of care they received and the variety of hearing aid options they had to choose from. Does the staff keep appointments in a timely manner? Is there anything they’re unhappy with or would change?

If you have medical insurance, check to see if costs associated with hearing tests and treatment are covered.

Ask Questions. Call each hearing center on the list and ask some questions:

1. Is there a full time hearing specialist on staff? How many? Will you see the specialist or an assistant during your hearing evaluation?

2. Do they offer a variety of hearing aid manufacturers and styles to choose from? What types of warranties are available? Do they offer training and education for the devices they sell?

3. If your medical insurance covers testing and treatment, ask if they accept your insurance provider. If your insurance plan does not cover these costs, ask what types of payment plans are available.

4. During your research, notice how you are being treated on the phone. Is the staff professional and courteous? Did you have to wait on hold for a long time or were you transferred several times before talking to a knowledgeable individual?

5. Check reviews on the web or the Better Business Bureau. What do others think about the clinic?

Content provided by Healthy Hearing