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The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online

The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online
The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online

This is sponsored content from The Hearing Heroes.

One of the challenges for those finding themselves losing their hearing is understanding which hearing aid will be the best fit for them and where to buy them from.  

With hearing aids lasting three to five years and advancements in technology, customers want to access the latest, quality options without breaking the bank. But did you know the same brands and models available in clinics can also be purchased online?

When buying online you should only be purchasing behind the ear hearing aids with the receiver in the ear (RIE/RIC aids). This type is less susceptible to feedback, creating a better overall sound experience for the user. These tiny aids, the latest in technology, are small, discrete and light.

The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online
The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online

Benefits of buying online

With a copy of your hearing test, you can purchase your hearing aids online. The biggest benefit for buying online is that these companies do not have brick and mortar clinics, so they can offer substantial savings.

Can online retailers really tailor the aids to my hearing loss?

The online retailer should ask for a copy of your latest (less than 12 months old) hearing test. Without a hearing test, your new hearing aid cannot be tailored to your unique needs and are most likely not being programmed by an audiological professional.

How do I know which retailer is better?

"You get what you pay for" 

Often the lowest priced hearing aid can be a cheap knock off, old technology or not sourced direct from the manufacturer, so the retailer is not an authorised reseller.

If the offering prices are far lower than other online retailers or pushing gimmicks, like price beat guarantees, it usually means they are cutting costs elsewhere: service, aid quality, or not having a professional to set up your aids.

The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online
The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online

Warranties 

This is an easy way to tell if you are dealing with a retailer that is an authorised manufacturer reseller. The warranty for your hearing aids should be at least three years. 

The number will be dependent on the manufacturer's terms for that specific model, but all quality brands offer at least three years.

How long should it take for me to get my hearing aids?

This is another great way to tell if your hearing aids are being tailored to your needs. If advertising shipping is than three days, be wary as it is too short a time for a hearing specialist to properly review your hearing test and program your aids. 

The standard is 5-10 days to dispatch from reputable sellers.

What if I need help after I buy online?

This is the most common concern for online hearing aid shoppers. You should always select an online retailer that is well supported by a network of clinics so you can have an appointment with an audiologist if you need.

Also, choose a retailer that offers email, phone and online chat support to customers so you can quickly and easily ask a question or receive guidance when you need it.

The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online
The questions you need to ask to get the best hearing aid fit online

What if I change my mind?

Your online retailer should offer a 100 per cent money back guarantee within 60 days.

Buying your hearing aids online should be an easy, stress free experience, resulting in you receiving top quality, tailored devices that you are happy with.

This information has been brought to you by The Hearing Heroes.  The Hearing Heroes have been involved in the hearing health sector in Australia and New Zealand for several decades.  Read more about us here.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more please contact us in our online chat, via email at info@thehearingheroes.com, or call  0800 771 618.

This is sponsored content from The Hearing heroes.