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Hearing Aids: Before You Buy
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If you suffer from a hearing impairment like 21
million other Americans, you may consider buying a hearing aid.
Before you do, determine whether a hearing aid will work for you
and what to look for when shopping for one.
How does a hearing aid work?
A hearing aid is an electronic device with a small microphone that
amplifies weak sounds through a small speaker. You must have some
ability to hear for the device to work. And because hearing loss
affects people in different ways, you need to get the right device
for you.
Why do people lose their hearing?
Medically, there are two major types of hearing loss:
Conductive hearing loss involves the outer and middle ear.
It usually results from a wax blockage, a punctured eardrum, birth
defects, ear infections, or it may be genetic. Conductive hearing
loss generally can be corrected surgically.
Sensorineural—or "nerve"—hearing loss involves damage to
the inner ear. It can be caused by aging, prenatal and
birth-related problems, viral and bacterial infections, genetics,
trauma (such as a severe blow to the head), exposure to loud
noises, the use of certain drugs, or fluid buildup or a benign
tumor in the inner ear. Sensorineural hearing loss usually can't
be repaired surgically; it's usually corrected with a hearing aid.
Where can I buy a hearing aid?
"Dispensers"—merchants or audiologists—sell hearing aids. Ask
friends or family for referrals. You also can check out
prospective dispensers with your local Better Business Bureau,
consumer protection agency, or state Attorney General. Your state
or local consumer protection office may have records of complaints
against dispensers or physicians, and can tell you how they
responded to the complaints. Consumer protection officials also
can tell you whether dispensers or audiologists must be licensed
or certified by the state.
How can I tell whether I need a hearing aid?
Get an ear examination from a licensed physician. An examination
will insure that there are no underlying illnesses or medical
problems associated with the hearing loss: sometimes a hearing
loss can be a symptom of a medical condition. As a result, you'll
want to be wary of advertisements for hearing aids that dismiss
the need for an examination—the distributor may be selling
inadequate products. In addition, don't feel pressured into buying
a hearing aid—ask for more information or a second opinion.
You also should get a hearing evaluation from a dispenser or an
audiologist. The cause and severity of hearing loss varies from
person to person. An evaluation will help a dispenser or
audiologist select and fit you with an appropriate hearing aid.
Can I get a trial period?
Many states recommend or require that consumers get at least a
free 30-day trial period. There usually is a service fee—five to
20 percent of the purchase price—if you return the hearing aid
during that time. In fact, many manufacturers will make
adjustments during the trial period, and allow returns within 60
to 90 days of purchase at no charge to the dispenser.
Buying a hearing aid from a door-to-door salesperson or through
the mail is risky. If you buy from a door-to-door salesperson at
any location that is not the salesperson's regular place of
business, you have the right to cancel any sale for $25 or more
within three business days.
Some states don't allow hearing aids to be sold through the mail.
That's because it's hard to get a proper fit. If your state does
allow mail-order sales, federal law requires companies to ship
your purchase when promised and give you the option to cancel the
order for a refund.
What about purchase agreements?
The hearing aid purchase agreement—or contract—should include all
terms of the transaction, including a clear explanation of all
verbal promises. In reviewing your agreement, consider the
following:
Is the warranty honored by the manufacturer or by the dispenser?
In some cases, a manufacturer may not honor its warranty unless
the hearing aid is purchased from a seller authorized by the
manufacturer.
s
What services—if any—will be provided
free of charge, and how long will they be provided?
s
Will I get a "loaner" if my hearing
aid needs repair?
What are the federal standards for hearing aid sales?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for monitoring
the business practices of hearing aid dispensers and vendors. The
FTC can take action against companies that mislead or deceive
consumers. Such companies may use misleading sales and advertising
practices—giving inaccurate information about hearing loss,
hearing aid performance, refund policies, or warranty coverage.
The law further requires companies offering warranties to fully
disclose all terms and conditions of their warranties.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces regulations that
deal specifically with the manufacture and sale of hearing aids.
According to the FDA, the following conditions must be met by all
dispensers before selling a hearing aid:
Dispensers must obtain a written statement from the patient,
signed by a licensed physician. The statement must be dated within
the previous six months, state that the patient's ears have been
medically evaluated, and that the patient is cleared for fitting
with a hearing aid.
A patient age 18 years or older can sign a waiver for a medical
examination, but dispensers must avoid encouraging the patient to
waive the medical evaluation requirement. Dispensers also must
advise the patient that waiving the examination is not in his best
health interest.
Dispensers must advise patients who appear to have a hearing
problem to consult promptly with a physician.
The FDA regulations also require that an instruction brochure be
provided with the hearing aid that illustrates and describes its
operation, use, and care. The brochure must list sources for
repair and maintenance, and include a statement that the use of a
hearing aid may be only part of a rehabilitative program.
What are the state standards for hearing aid sales?
Many states have laws governing hearing aid sales. Most states
license hearing aid dispensers. You also may be protected by
implied warranties created by state law. Your state Attorney
General's office can tell you what laws apply to hearing aid sales
in your state.
Where can I complain?
The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive,
and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide
information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file
a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit
ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY:
1-866-653-4261.
Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission
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