Why Are Hearing Aid Prices So Different?

If you have been told that you need to get a hearing aid for your hearing loss, you are probably trying to find the best hearing aid for your needs. One of the things you might have noticed is that prices can differ greatly. You may be wondering why there is such a great difference in pricing for hearing aids. Hearing aids are priced differently for a variety of different reasons. Here’s a closer look at why some hearing aid prices are so different from others.

The severity of hearing loss

Perhaps the biggest feature that affects the price of a hearing aid is the severity your hearing loss. The more severe your hearing loss the more features and powerful technology you will likely need. From Bluetooth to directional microphones, hearing aids for severe-to-profound hearing loss will require more advanced technology.

Since hearing aids are designed to help people based on the severity of the hearing loss. They are designed to be used for mild, moderate, severe or profound hearing loss, and this will affect the pricing.

Bundling of costs

The bundling of hearing aid costs may be one reason why it seems as if your hearing aid price is exorbitant. Some audiologists will bundle your cost together so you may pay a higher price upfront. The cost that may be bundled together include fittings, repair services, loaner hearing aids and the cost of the hearing aid itself.

It is also acceptable to ask that the cost of your hearing aid not be bundled together. If you are on a limited budget and you prefer to pay as you go, then you can get your hearing by itself without accepting a bundle. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist about what you can do about your hearing aids.

Technology and Hearing Aids

The type of technology that your hearing aids have can affect the price. Features such as being able to connect to smartphone apps, Bluetooth and having multiple channels, so you can adjust the volume in as many different frequencies.

If you want to lower the cost of your hearing aid then you will have to choose a more traditional style of hearing aid. However, as technology becomes more commonplace several hearing aids are coming out on the market that are filled with technological features.

The Style of the Hearing Aid

You need to consider the style of hearing aid you want, which your hearing instrument specialist will help you make the best decision for your needs. You also need to consider the size and color of the hearing aid as well. The severity of your hearing loss will also factor into this decision of finding the right hearing aid for you.

There are several different styles of hearing aids available, with the most common ones being:

• In the ear (ITE)
• In the canal (ITC)
• Behind the ear (BTE)
• Invisible in canal (IIC)
• Completely in canal (CIC)

Your hearing instrument specialist will work closely with you to ensure you find the right devices for your specific needs. This will take into account factors like hearing loss severity, budget, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Different Operational Features

When hearing aid manufacturers update the different features of their hearing aids there is normally a price attached to that upgrade. If you are looking to buy a hearing aid from a particular brand, you may want to look into buying a slightly older model if you are looking to save money.

Often the differences in features between an older model and the latest one is not dramatically different. However, the prices will be very different in many cases. Depending on what your hearing aid needs are you can ask your hearing instrument specialist if an older model will be just as effective. This can help you to save on your hearing aid costs.

Bear in mind too that some brands of hearing aids will be more cost-effective than others. This may be due to the prestige of the manufacturer and their reputation for quality. It will also depend on what features you may want for your hearing needs.

If you would like help with finding the right hearing aid for you and why the prices vary talk to you hearing instrument specialist. please, contact the team at Affordable Hearing by calling us today at Irmo: 803-749-6017 or Orangeburg + Santee: 803-531-6403. We offer quality care for all types of hearing loss.