Jackie Bradwell 
Questions you should ask of ANY audiologist...
To make sure you are getting the right device and the right level of service here is a list of questions you should ask of any hearing professional.
Here are the questions and our replies...
- Should I consult a doctor to find out if there is any underlying medical cause for my hearing loss?
If you suspect there might be an underlying medical cause you should contact your doctor. However if your Hearing Aid Audiologist suspects there is a medical cause they will advise you to go to your GP anyway.
- Will hearing instruments actually improve my ability to hear?
The only way to find out is to try. Most hearing losses will improve with the use of hearing aids.
- What are the differences between basic types of hearing instruments?
There are many differences, in size, style and sophistication, hence the wide range in price.
- What kind of hearing instruments would be best for me?
Your Hearing Aid Audiologist will advise this after they have examined your hearing.
- How are hearing instruments priced? Can you break down the cost?
Most Hearing Aids Dispensing Companies will charge one price to cover the cost of the hearing aid(s) and service. You need to ascertain if future service repairs are included in the initial price.
- What’s the return or trial period on the hearing instruments I’m purchasing?
This will differ depending on the company, normally 30-60 days
- Are there service fees that won’t be refunded if I return the hearing instruments? What is covered in these fees, and how much can I expect to pay?
This will be down to the individual terms and conditions of the company.
- What kind of post-fitting and aural rehabilitation programs do you provide?
At the Knutsford Hearing Centre we provide a very thorough rehabilitation program and service for the life of the hearing aids. There is no additional charge for this.
- Can I expect to come back for minor alterations?
In a word, yes. Most clients do need some adjustments in the first few weeks of wearing new aids.
- Do you provide a written contract or purchase agreement?
Yes. All reputable companies should do this.
- Is there a warranty? Who honors the warranty, you or the manufacturer?
On the hearing aids we provide the minimum warranty is 2 years (manufacturer’s).
It may be possible sometimes to get up to 5 years warranty at no additional charge.
The warranty is with the manufacturer but we would always be the first point of contact for any repair issues. - Can I get insurance in case they’re lost or damaged?
The cheapest and easiest way is normally to add the aids to the contents of your home insurance. We advise our clients to do this.
- What’s the average lifespan of this hearing instrument?
This will vary dependent on factors such as how well the aid is maintained and how your hearing changes over time. On average an aid should last several years.
- What happens if my hearing instruments stop working?
You will need to contact us and we will do the rest. It may be a fault which can be easily repaired on site or the aid may need to be sent away to the manufacturer.
- Do you repair them or does someone else? What will it cost?
As above. We would try to carry out minor repairs. Normally there would be no cost to repairs carried out on site at the Knutsford Hearing Centre. If the aid is under warrantee there would be no manufacturer charge.
- What happens if my hearing changes?
Your hearing will probably change during the life of the hearing aids. 99% of hearing aids nowadays are programmable, therefore we can re-programme the aid to match your hearing – at no cost.