FAQ
Welcome to Access to Hearing Care, where we provide valuable insights to help you better understand your hearing health. Our FAQ section is designed to address common questions and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your hearing care. Explore our FAQs and gain valuable knowledge about hearing health.
Appointments & Getting Started
What are your hours?
We are open from 8:30am – 5pm Monday – Thursday. Friday 10am – 2pm.
Are walk-ins welcome?
Yes, walk-ins are always welcome. If we are with a patient, please take a seat and we will be with you as soon as possible.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a hearing healthcare provider?
How soon can I get an appointment?
We’re typically able to see new patients within the same week. Visit our calendar to make your appointment or call us at 765-202-8378.
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Please visit our calendar to check our current availability or call us at 765-202-8378.
What should I bring to my appointment?
What should I expect at my first appointment?
We’ll review your hearing and medical history, examine your ears, and perform a hearing test. If needed, we’ll discuss results and treatment options. The appointment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Do you offer remote or telehealth appointments?
Yes, we offer telehealth appointments for certain services, such as follow-ups, hearing aid adjustments, and consultations. We’ll let you know if your needs can be handled remotely or if an in-office visit is recommended.
Do you provide pediatric hearing tests?
We currently see patients ages 18 and older. For children or teens, we recommend working with a pediatric audiologist or ENT who specializes in hearing care for younger patients.
Hearing Tests & Hearing Health
How long does a hearing test take?
A full hearing evaluation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case.
How much does a hearing test cost?
The cost varies depending on the type of test. A comprehensive hearing evaluation typically ranges from $65 to $125 before insurance. We can check your benefits for you.
Do you clean ears or remove earwax?
We do not perform earwax (cerumen) removal in our office. If excess wax is present, we can identify it during your visit and refer you to a trusted local provider for safe removal.
Can hearing aids help with tinnitus?
For many people, yes. Hearing aids can amplify external sounds, which often reduces the perception of tinnitus.
What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser?
Hearing instrument specialists (also called dispensers) are licensed professionals who focus on evaluating hearing needs and fitting, programming, and optimizing hearing aids for real-world performance. Audiologists have broader medical training, while dispensers specialize in helping patients hear their best day-to-day with properly fitted technology.
Hearing Loss & Hearing Aid Candidacy
How do I know if I need hearing aids?
If you’re frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, struggling to hear conversations in noisy environments, or feeling like others are mumbling, it may be time for a hearing evaluation. A comprehensive hearing test can determine whether hearing aids may benefit you.
Will hearing aids restore my hearing to normal?
Hearing aids do not cure hearing loss or restore hearing to its original state. However, they can significantly improve your ability to hear speech, participate in conversations, and enjoy everyday sounds. This is why it’s important to identify hearing loss early.
Do I need one hearing aid or two?
The answer depends on your hearing loss. Many people benefit from wearing hearing aids in both ears because it helps with sound localization, speech understanding, and overall listening comfort. We can recommend the best solution based on your hearing test results.
Hearing Aid Styles & Technology
What types of hearing aids are available?
Hearing aids come in a variety of styles, including behind-the-ear, receiver-in-canal, in-the-ear, and completely-in-canal designs. The best style for you depends on your hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity, cosmetic preferences, and communication needs.
Do you have invisible products? I want something discreet.
Absolutely. During your consultation, we’ll review discreet and nearly invisible hearing aid options that fit comfortably and match your hearing needs.
What brands of hearing aids do you carry?
What features are available in modern hearing aids?
Today’s hearing aids may include rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone apps, directional microphones, tinnitus management features, and direct streaming from phones, televisions, and other devices.
Are rechargeable hearing aids available?
Yes. Many modern hearing aids feature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can be charged overnight, eliminating the need to frequently change disposable batteries.
Can hearing aids connect to my smartphone?
Many hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream phone calls, music, television audio, and other media directly to your hearing devices.
Do you provide assistive listening devices?
Yes, we offer devices like TV streamers, remote microphones, and Bluetooth accessories.
Hearing Aid Consultations, Cost & Financing
What happens during a hearing aid consultation?
During a consultation, we’ll review your hearing test results, discuss your lifestyle and communication goals, explain available technology options, and help you select the hearing solution that best fits your needs and budget.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide complimentary consultations for hearing aid discussions.
Will my insurance cover hearing aids?
Can I use my HSA or FSA for hearing aids?
Yes, most Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts can be used for hearing aids and related services.
Do you offer payment plans or financing?
Yes, we have financing options available to make hearing care more affordable. We can discuss details during your appointment.
Living With Hearing Aids
How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?
Adjusting to hearing aids takes time. Many new users need several weeks to become comfortable with hearing amplified sounds. Regular follow-up visits help ensure your devices are properly adjusted and performing their best.
Will I have to wear hearing aids all the time?
We recommend wearing them during all waking hours for the best benefit, but you may remove them for sleeping or bathing.
Can I swim or shower with hearing aids?
No. Most hearing aids are water-resistant but not waterproof. You should remove them before swimming or showering.
Hearing Aid Care, Repairs & Warranty
How do I care for my hearing aids?
To keep your hearing aids functioning properly, clean them regularly, keep them dry, charge or replace batteries as needed, and follow our recommendations for maintenance and storage.
How long do hearing aids last?
Most hearing aids last approximately five to seven years with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleanings and adjustments can help extend the life of your devices.
Do you do hearing aid repairs?
Yes, we provide in-office repairs and also send devices to the manufacturer if needed.
Is there a warranty?
Yes, most hearing aids come with a manufacturer warranty of up to 3 years, depending on the model and technology level. This typically includes repair coverage and, in many cases, loss or damage protection, helping protect your investment while you’re getting the most out of your devices.