How to Pick the Right Audiologist for You

Picking any health care professional can be a scary and daunting task. You want and need to make sure they are a good fit and are going to be there for you and your health needs. This is the same when it comes to picking your audiologist.

Questions to consider when selecting an audiologist

You want and need to make sure they are going to be there for your and for your hearing needs not only in the present but in the future as well. You want and need to make sure that they will and are going to understand your needs when it comes to your hearing and your general health as well. So how do you know you are picking the right one? Here are some things to think about as you go through and decide which audiologist might be the right one for you.

Questions about the office

• Location. Location is important. You want to make sure that they are easy to get to and are close to your home or work. Are they easily accessible by different routes or modes of transportation?
• Hours of Operation. Hours of operation are very important. You make to make sure that their hours of operation fits your schedule not the other way around. Hours of operation and location should go hand in hand because the amount of time it takes to get there and their hours of operation may not fit together. Be sure to calculate travel time when looking at the hours of operation
• Accessibility. Is the office easy to get to? Is it on the eighth floor of a high-rise building or on the first close? Is there easy parking or no parking at all? Is it wheelchair accessible? Will they come to you? Are there multiple locations? Hours of operation and location should also be considered when looking into the accessibility.

Questions about the audiologist

• Experience. Experience is important especially if there is something specific, other than hearing loss, that you are seeking the help and advice of an audiologist. Do they specialize in hereditary conditions? Do they specialize in rehabilitation of adults? Find out what they specialize in if anything. You may also want to consider years in the field as well as their education. How long have they been practicing? Where and when did they go to school?
• Referrals. Always ask your family, friends and your family doctor or other hearing health professional who they recommend. Sometimes word of mouth and other person experiences by those you trust can be a great help in deciding who your audiologist will be.

Selecting a hearing care provider doesn’t have to be a challenging task. By considering the qualities and traits you want in the office environment and from the audiologist, you will be able to make an easy and educated decision.