3 Things to Consider When Selecting an Audiologist

Finding an audiologist is an important step into caring for your hearing health. Whether you locate your audiologist online or through friends and family, there are a number of factors you should consider when selecting the right professional to evaluate, diagnose and treat your condition.

When selecting the audiologist to take care of your hearing health, take into account the following three things before choosing the right candidate.

Location and hours

Depending on the reason you’re seeing an audiologist, you may need to visit this professional a few times a month in the beginning, whether it’s for testing, hearing aid fittings or more. It’s crucial to select an audiologist whose office location and hours are convenient to your day-to-day activities. When it comes to location, try to find an audiologist with an office located near your work, home or school to make it easy to be at appointments on time. Additionally, if you know you’ll struggle to take off work or school for appointments, look for an audiologist that offers evening or weekend appointments. This way you’ll be more likely to schedule and go to appointments and have fewer cancellations.

Specialties

Remember to consider why you’re visiting the audiologist in the first place. Are you looking for a professional for your young child? Or perhaps you’re looking for relief from that ringing and buzzing in your ear known as tinnitus. Regardless of why you’re seeing the audiologist, make sure to find someone who specializes in the condition you’re seeking treatment for. There are many audiologists who specialize in pediatric audiologist, in addition to professionals with specialized training in tinnitus therapies. When considering an audiologist, call the office or view the website to determine if they’re knowledgeable in your particular needs.

Insurance

While many insurance companies do not cover the purchase of hearing aids, more and more are offering assistance for hearing exams and audiologist appointments. When considering an audiologist, call your health insurance company and ask about any hearing health benefits you may have available and if the professional you’re considering would be included.

Finding an audiologist isn’t a difficult task, but you want to ensure you find the right one for your needs. Once you’ve selected the right audiologist for you, schedule an appointment and start your journey to better hearing health.