How to Select the Best Audiologist

An audiologist is the best partner you can have throughout your hearing health journey. They are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of hearing and balance health-related issues, including hearing loss, balance disorders and tinnitus. Additionally, they can help fit, maintain and repair hearing aids, ensuring you get the best out of your device. However, selecting the right audiologist is crucial, which is why you should consider the following avenues during your search.

Ask your family, friends and doctors

Many audiologists rely heavily on the referrals they get from patients they have treated in the past or are currently treating. Those audiologists are often the ones who invest time and energy into providing not just professional service, but a standard of treatment that keeps patients comfortable and confident in their treatment. Your primary care doctor may also be a good source of information as they are likely to have connections with a range of specialists, including audiologists, that they trust with the care of their patients.

Learn more about them

A well-established audiologist should have some history that you can look into, as well. If they have been in business for a long time or have a lot of experience in the industry working with others before starting their own practice, it’s a good sign they have developed precisely the expertise you need. Don’t hesitate to use Google and review sites to see how others rate their business, as well. It can give you a good idea of how happy their patients are, in general.

Consult your insurance provider

Depending on your insurance provider is, they may have a say on who you should seek treatment from. If the audiologist is a member of your provider’s network, then that’s another serious reason to consider them. While hearing aids may not be covered by your insurance, a hearing test may, potentially saving you in costs.

Consider the distance

Make sure you know the distance between you and the audiologist’s office. Some may have limited options due to having few practices in their area. If you have several in your area, then it’s wise to move onto other considerations like reviews, referrals and your insurance provider. Otherwise, is it convenient and easy to get to the audiologist’s office when you need to?

Check their services

There are some services that the majority of audiologists can provide a good standard of care for. Most, if not all, can provide hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, professional ear cleanings and hearing aid repairs. However, if you experience particular trouble with issues like vertigo or tinnitus, it’s a good idea to see whether the audiologist specializes in your specific issue. They may have information, resources and treatment experience that others do not.

The last step is to get in touch with the audiologist yourself. Getting your own first impression, ensuring that you can be comfortable with them and that you get the respect and care you deserve matters above all else.