In 2012, your BBB recorded more than 1,200 inquiries locally about hearing aid specialists. However, about 129,000 inquiries and more than 450 complaints were filed nationally against companies in this industry with your BBB in 2012.
Your Better Business Bureau offers tips for finding a trustworthy hearing aid specialist:
• Get recommendations from family and friends. If they’re pleased with who they’ve used, most likely you’ll be too.
• Compare costs and shop around. Get written estimates detailing the cost of the hearing aid, doctor’s fees, etc.
• Avoid selecting a hearing aid by appearance or cost. An inexpensive or poor quality hearing aid could need repaired frequently.
• Consider the hearing aid specialist’s reputation, years of services and services provided.
• Get a written contract, including any warranties.
• Determine if the hearing aid specialist belongs to a professional organization like the American Hearing Aid Associates (AHAA) or the Hearing Industries Association (HIA). Professional organizations typically offer members continuing education.
• Be sure the hearing specialists are insured.
• Check with your insurance company or Medicaid to see if it will cover your hearing aid.
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