Use precise locationMost Visited Audiologists
What can Audiologist Explorer do for me?
It can be difficult finding the right kind of specialist to help you with your hearing loss. audiologists.org has created a comprehensive directory of the audiologists in your city and/or around the state to help you identify a specialist that fits your specific needs. Once you’ve identified a specialist or clinic you would like to visit, you can request an appointment through our online form. Yes, it’s as easy as that!
What to know before your visit
So you’ve decided to find an audiologist. That’s great news! It means you’re taking your first step on the journey toward reclaiming your hearing health. Of course, before you go to the audiologist, you want to make sure you’re prepared so you can have a productive visit.
There are some simple things to keep in mind before your first appointment.
Will my audiologist accept insurance?
Everyone’s insurance policy is different, so it’s difficult to say. Most Medicare plans do not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits, including hearing health coverage, so it’s important to check with your provider.
You can call the audiologist ahead of time to see what kind of services may be covered by your particular insurance or Medicare plan. As a general rule, most insurance providers will cover a baseline hearing test.
However, advanced diagnostic testing, hearing aids, implants, and therapy sessions with either an audiologist or a speech-language pathologist may require authorization. Some insurance companies may authorize these services, while others may elect not to cover them.
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), 25 states require health benefits companies to cover some level of hearing loss treatment or support, whether it’s audiology services or the cost of hearing aids.
If you have any questions regarding your insurance provider and hearing loss treatment, it’s best to reach out to your benefits company directly.
12 questions to ask your audiologist
The questions you need to ask your audiologist will depend on your needs and your specific symptoms. However, it’s always best to be prepared with additional questions, not only so you can educate yourself on your condition, but so you can see if this audiologist is a good fit for you.
What type of hearing loss do I have?
There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss. Understanding what type you have determines your treatment options.
Is my hearing loss permanent?
Sometimes, conductive hearing loss or mixed hearing loss can improve, either by waiting out an infection, getting surgery, or more. If your hearing loss is permanent, you will want to discuss options like hearing aids and ways to adjust your lifestyle.
Will my hearing loss get worse or will it improve with time?
Even if your hearing loss is permanent, there may be a few things you can do to help improve it over time. Discuss your options with your audiologist.
What area of audiology do you specialize in?
Some audiologists specialize in pediatrics, working with children, while others specialize in geriatrics, working with older adults. It’s important to know your audiologist’s specialty to get the right kind of care.
What is the degree of my hearing loss?
Whether your hearing loss is mild or severe determines a lot about your treatment options and the kind of hearing aid that might work best for you. Be sure you understand your degree of hearing loss.
What kind of hearing aids options do you offer?
Some audiologists may only recommend prescription hearing aids, while others are open to over-the-counter hearing aids. Ask your doctor about your options.
What’s the best hearing aid for me?
There are different kinds of hearing aids, including behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal hearing aids. Understanding what each hearing aid offers will help you make the best decision for your needs.
Do I need a hearing aid for one or both ears?
Sometimes, hearing loss may only affect one ear. Talk with your hearing specialist about whether your hearing loss affects one or both ears.
How often will I need to get my hearing aid adjusted?
This can help you understand your device and make the necessary appointments should you need regular adjustments.
How often will I need to replace my hearing aids?
Hearing aids are expensive. Understanding how much you may need to spend, along with warranties and financing options, can help you plan for the investment.
What other treatment options do you recommend to help my hearing improve?
Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your audiologists may recommend working with a speech language pathologist or regular audiological therapy to rehabilitate your hearing.
Where can I buy hearing aids?
Many audiologists sell hearing aids to their patients. You can also purchase hearing aids online. Review some of the best available on audiologists.org
A bit about hearing aids
Both over-the-counter hearing aids and prescription aids can help with hearing loss. Selecting the right hearing aid for you is part of an audiologist’s job. But you are the one who gets to make the final decision. There are a few things to consider before purchasing a hearing aid.
- Cost
- Charging capabilities
- Bluetooth capabilities and other features
- Smartphone compatibility
- Adjustment options
- Customization
Where can I buy hearing aids?
You can purchase hearing aids directly from your audiologist. You may prefer to purchase directly from them, especially if they offer custom fits and adjustments.
audiologists.org also offers several different ways to purchase prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids.
Audiologists near me
UB Audiology and Speech Language Pathology Clinic
University at Buffalo, 52 Biomedical Education Building, Buffalo, NY 14215
Stephen Glasser, AUD
1000 Northern Boulevard Suite 330, Great Neck, NY 11021, Great Neck, NY 11020