Top Tips for Selecting the Right Audiologist

When you are experiencing issues with your hearing, finding a good audiologist can help you find the best treatment options for your needs, be it recovering from an injury or getting fitted for hearing aids. But how do you find the right audiologist for you? It can be tricky if you don’t know where to start, but by following some tips, you can find it isn’t as hard as it once seemed.

This post looks at some tips for selecting the right audiologist.

Reputation

Ask around family and friends and find out what type of experience they have had with audiologists in the past. Read reviews and testimonials on the website and look at their services to see if they can help you with your hearing concerns. It’s important to find someone that actively communicates with patients and reviews – both good and bad. You can also talk to your primary care physician about an audiologist that might be suitable for your needs.

Qualifications

You want your audiologist to be trained; that goes without saying. However, looking at their training and experience can help you determine if they are the right audiologist for you. You might also want to check if they are registered and certified by the American Speech-Hearing Association (ASHA). This will further support their training and experience.

Approved Providers

If your insurance covers hearing care, you can find an approved list of providers from your insurance company. This will help you narrow down potential audiologists; you can be confident you won’t be paying 100% of the cost of your visits and any hearing aids and fittings you require.

Location

How far you want to travel to see an audiologist can determine your shortlist and help to narrow down choices. Do you need your audiologist to be close to your home to reduce travel, or is it easier for them to be located closer to a place of work? Consider their working hours to make sure this aligns with the times you are free to make an appointment or attend a follow-up session or hearing aid fittings.

Business History

One more consideration when choosing the right audiologist is their business history. While there are always newly qualified audiologists setting up a business, it can be helpful to know their history and how long they have been in business. Some people are happy to register with a new provider; others prefer the experience established enterprises have. If this matters to you, ask how long they have been operating and check their website for a better picture of their history.

Choosing the right audiologist needn’t be hard when you know what to ask and look for when making your decision. Don’t be afraid to shop around until you find the right person for you to make sure you have the best experience for your hearing needs.