Most people think that it begins with a hearing test. And, although, you are right to make the assumption, not all hearing tests are created equal. You see, with the increased demand for productivity from the larger national chains, the name of the game for many large companies is to get as many people into their clinics to "screen" their hearing and capture those that can be "fitted" for a quick sale to increase market share for their overseas shareholders.
There are two easy questions you can ask to become a savvy consumer when it comes to finding out more about your hearing and potentially looking at a hearing aid.
Nick emphasized that "just because you have a hearing loss on paper doesn't actually mean that a hearing aid is the best thing for you!"
More on this later... but that is why the "screening" model in our opinion actually leads to more dissatisfaction with hearing aids in the community. This is counterproductive to what we are aiming to achieve as clinicians which is to show those that actually need them, how amazing hearing aid technology is.
The first question to ask is "Is this a complete hearing assessment by a qualified Audiologist?"
A complete hearing assessment should include air conduction through headphones, bone conduction through a headband device that sits just behind your ear, tympanometry to assess if there is an ear infection, speech testing, speech in noise testing, and any other tests or assessment deemed appropriate by the Audiologist.
This complete assessment cannot be performed in 10 mins within an office environment with just listening to "beeps" under headphones. The complete diagnostic assessment is also generally not available for "free" either. (insert link for sound room)
Your clinician should be checking for wax blockage as well. Screening personnel tend not to look in the ears before performing a basic test so that will give you a clue. A qualified Audiologist can remove earwax blockage either through curetting or the use of a micro-suction machine before testing begins. (insert link about earwax removal)
The second question to ask is "What is the qualifications of the person performing the hearing test?"
Most people do NOT know that in Australia, any person off the street can sell you hearing aid. This means, that the industry is not as regulated as other health professions. Many of us that are Accredited Audiologists with Audiology Australia. This provides some assurance to the consumer that Accredited Audiologists must follow a strict Code of Conduct which sets out fundamental standards of behaviour and responsibilities that members must adhere to. Those that acts outside of this code will be penalised and can face significant fines. (link to read about the difference between audiologist and an audiometrist)
The problem is you don't have to be an accredited audiologist to practice. Where does this leave the consumer? Another thing to look for is whether your Audiologist is also an accredited provider of the Commonwealth Hearing Services Program (HSP). The HSP is a government funded hearing program for eligible Pensioners. But, even if you are not eligible for the program, it is a good indication that an Audiologist who is a registered provider follows the very strict guidelines to keep up the government accreditation which can give you some peace of mind.
