If you have had to get certain types of medical services, including hearing tests and hearing aids in the past, you may have noticed that what used to be strictly something you visited the doctor for is now available in big box stores, such as Walmart and Costco.
But is going to a big box store really the best place to handle your ear care needs? Although it may be more convenient to have your hearing checked or pick up new hearing aids while you are doing your weekly grocery shopping, in reality it may not be the best option. Here are just a few of the reasons why it may be more beneficial to seek help from a professional audiologist.
High Quality Products
One of the most beneficial reasons to see an audiologist for your hear aid products is the quality. When you purchase medical equipment, including hearing aids, from a big box store, there is no guarantee you are getting a quality product or a product that is going to be the best device for you and your needs. Two of the biggest concerns with less than quality hearing aids is interference and bad sound quality. Investing in quality products that have been recommended by your audiologist allows you to relax knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to use a quality product and your investment is guaranteed.
Professionalism
Taking the big box route may mean you are missing out on the experience and professionalism of an experienced doctor. Going anywhere other than to your audiologist may result in an insufficient/incorrect diagnosis that can have a lasting effect on your hearing, including total hearing loss. Your doctor will have the appropriate equipment and knowledge to provide a more precise analysis of your hearing, whereas the employees in a big box stores typically do not have the background or the time required to provide you with level of care you deserve.
Cost Effective
One of the most common reasons why many people shop big box stores for the hearing health is the cost and convenience. Although it’s true that the costs may be higher when you buy your products from a professional audiologist, but the higher cost is the result of higher quality products. Big box stores often charge less for their hearing products, but in the long run you may end up paying significantly more because the low quality usually means frequent replacements. Also, when you take your hearing concerns to an audiologist, your insurance may help you recoup some of the cost.