In this blog, we’re going to outline the typical cost of a hearing aid and share our expert advice on the best way to purchase the right hearing aid for you.
Typical Cost Of A Hearing Aid
The cost of a hearing aid differs greatly depending on the individuals level of hearing, the individual’s lifestyle and the type of hearing aid used.
For example, for someone with a quieter lifestyle who typically requires a hearing aid for having conversations and watching TV at home, a hearing aid optimised for more basic amplification in quieter places will be best.
And this will be far cheaper in comparison to someone who has a hearing aid optimised for noisy and challenging environments, such as workplace meetings, social gatherings and crowds.
According to Which?, the average price of a pair of hearing aids is £2,500. You can pay more or less depending on your needs and budget.
Here at Friel Hearing Services, we aim to provide affordable yet quality hearing aids, so our small in the Ear custom-made instruments start from just £595.00. They are incredibly discreet and tailored to suit your hearing and lifestyle. Plus, we offer a 60-day free trial on all hearing aids!
Tips For Buying Hearing Aids
With prices varying so greatly from one private audiologist to another, it can be tricky to know how to go about buying hearing aids. Here are our top tips for buying quality hearing aids:
Do Your Research
Having a better understanding of hearing aids will help you make the best decision. Look into the different types of hearing aids and gain an understanding of the pros and cons of each.
For example, some hearing aids, such as BTE (behind the ear) aids, are not as discreet as others. At Friel Hearing, we always aim to use modern hearing aids that are small and cosmetically discreet.
Think about your lifestyle and the environments you typically spend your time in. This will help the audiologist provide the best hearing aid for your needs. During your hearing assessment – don’t hesitate to ask questions!
Choose An Audiologist You Trust
A local and independent hearing specialist is the best option as they are not affiliated with any National companies or Hearing Aid manufacturers. This means they can offer impartial, professional advice, based on your clinical needs.
Here at Friel Hearing, we are an independent and local hearing specialist located in Lancashire. Andrew Friel, our highly skilled clinician does not work to any “sales targets” and will even fit all hearing aids on a 60-day free trial. So, if you’re not in love with your hearing aids, you can get your money back!
When choosing an audiologist, you should also look at customer testimonials and reviews. A trustworthy hearing aid specialist will have lots of positive reviews from a diverse range of people.
Book A Hearing Assessment
Before you can be fitted for hearing aids, you need a professional hearing assessment. At Friel Hearing, we provide at-home or in-clinic assessments. Our at-home hearing assessments are ideal for people who may not be able to get into the clinic. They can have a full hearing assessment using the latest technology from the comfort of their home.
Do I Need To Pay For Hearing Aids?
The majority of people can get hearing aids through the NHS without paying. However, if you choose to go through the NHS, you are limited on the hearing aids available.
As stated on the NHS website, the majority of hearing aids provided by the NHS are BTE (behind the ear) hearing aids. This means they have a piece of plastic that sits behind the ear that is attached via a tube to another piece of plastic that sits inside the ear.
Although these types of hearing aids are simple to use, they are not discreet when you are wearing them. If you would like a different type of hearing, preferably a discreet one, it is recommended that you go to a private hearing specialist.
Aside from the lack of choice, getting hearing aids through the NHS also comes with a long waiting list. You first have to be referred by your GP. Then you have to wait for an appointment with an NHS audiologist, which takes a minimum of 6 weeks. After your visit with the audiologist, the waiting time for a fitting appointment can be as long as 3-4 months.
If you would like a hearing aid fitting quickly, it is best to visit a private audiologist.
Get In Touch
Friel Hearing Services, based in Lancashire, is led by Andrew Friel. Andrew is a highly-skilled, NHS trained Private Hearing Aid Audiologist.
Andrew has a Masters Degree in Audiological Science and more than 20 years of experience in hearing care. At Friel Hearing, our team aim to provide you with the perfect, bespoke hearing aids that suit your preferences and budget.
We offer a range of hearing services from our clinics or the comfort of your own home. This includes micro-suction ear wax removal and hearing assessments.
If you are located in Lancashire and you would like to find out more about our services, get in touch today. You can call our Blackburn clinic on 01254 699 997 or call our Poulton-le-Fylde clinic on 01253 896 022. Alternatively, email us at [email protected].
