Is the ringing in your ear getting worse? Are you having trouble following conversations at dinner or when with family? It might be time to finally get serious about your hearing health, but here in Louisiana, finding the right audiologist isn’t as simple as picking the closest provider from a Google search.
Whether you’re dealing with decades of duck hunting without hearing protection or just noticing things aren’t as sharp as they used to be, choosing the wrong provider can leave you frustrated and out thousands of dollars. Here’s what you actually need to know.
What Does an Audiologist Really Do?
First thing’s first, an audiologist isn’t the same as a person selling hearing aids at your local big box store. These are licensed healthcare professionals who went to school specifically to understand how your ears work. They diagnose your hearing problems, manage issues with balance, deal with tinnitus, and yes, fit hearing aids when you actually need them.
In Louisiana, every audiologist must also be licensed through our state Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. You can check anyone’s license on their website, and in at least some cases, the two minutes spent verifying these details can save you a lot of future headaches.
Check Their Credentials (Seriously)
Your audiologist should have either a Doctor of Audiology degree (AuD) or a Master’s in audiology. Beyond that, you’ll want to look for certifications from organizations like American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) or the American Board of Audiology.
If someone’s being evasive about their training or you aren’t able to find their credentials easily, it might be wise to walk away. When it comes to your hearing, it’s never a good time to give someone the benefit of the doubt.
Think About What You Actually Need
Where many people get gummed up is in assuming that all audiologists are the same. They are not. Maybe you’re a musician in the French Quarter dealing with sound sensitivity. Maybe you work offshore and need serious protection for your ears. Maybe your 80-year-old mom has both hearing loss and balance problems.
Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions! Do they handle tinnitus therapy? Can they do vestibular testing for dizziness? Do they fit the newer invisible hearing aids? If their answers sound like they’re reading from a script, you should keep looking.
What Happens During Your Hearing Test
A full hearing evaluation takes time; typically over an hour. An experienced audiologist will likely conduct pure-tone testing to see what sounds you can hear, speech testing to check how well you understand words, and tympanometry to see exactly how your eardrums move.
They should take time to explain what they’re doing and what the results mean in plain English. If you feel rushed or walk out confused about what’s actually happening with your hearing, that’s a red flag.
The Hearing Aid Conversation
Some audiologists are basically salespeople who push whatever brand gives them the best margins. Others actually care about finding what works for you.
The good ones will offer options from different manufacturers, explain why they recommend certain features, and be honest about what you can expect from your devices. Here in Louisiana, they should also consider our climate – our humidity can wreck hearing aids if they’re not built to handle it.
What Happens After You Buy
Hearing aids aren’t like glasses. You don’t just put them on and forget about them. You’ll need to make adjustments, cleanings, and eventually repairs. Ask upfront: What does follow-up care look like? Do they charge extra for programming changes? How do they handle warranty claims?
If they can’t give you clear answers, you could end up stuck with expensive paperweights and no help.
Money Talk
No matter where you get them from, hearing aids are expensive devices. You’re likely to encounter prices ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 for a pair, depending on features and where you go. In Louisiana, Medicaid currently covers kids but adult coverage for hearing aids can be hit or miss. Private insurance can also vary wildly in coverage.
A trustworthy clinic will break down your costs clearly, help you figure out what insurance will pay, and discuss financing options if needed. If they won’t give you straight answers, assume the worst.
Red Flags to Avoid
As a general rule, you should avoid anyone who:
- Pressures you to buy immediately
- Won’t let you take information home to think about
- Can’t explain their credentials clearly
- Offers “today only” pricing
- Won’t discuss their return policies
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Finding Someone Local
Choosing an audiologist isn’t just about hearing aids, it’s about finding someone you trust to manage your hearing health for years to come. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t let anyone rush you into a decision.
Your hearing connects you to everything that matters, so it’s important to find the right provider to help you stay connected to it all. If you’re looking for an experienced audiologist that truly understands Louisiana’s unique environment and lifestyle, Associated Hearing has two convenient locations and truly understands what works for our communities.
–Ready to get started? Our team of expert audiologists has been helping Louisiana residents with their hearing health for years. They understand local challenges and the unique needs of our communities. Don’t wait until your hearing begins to impact your daily life. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards better hearing health.