Guide to Neighborhood Hearing Centers & Big Box Stores

As Big Box retailers make their way into the hearing aid industry, there are more places than ever to obtain hearing aids. This had lead to confusion among consumers looking to improve or maintain their hearing health. However, there are distinct differences between big-box realtors and your local hearing center. Our team has complied the following guide to help explain these differences.

Levels of Care

Perhaps the largest discrepancy between the chain stores and private practices is the level of care. Think of it this way: while chain stores are in the business of selling, hearing centers are in the business of treating. When you patronize a local practice, a Doctor of Audiology provides a diagnosis and plan for treatment. This allows for individualized care from someone who is personally invested in your rehabilitation. The spectrum of care is more limited at Big Box stores, since they do not require the same level of expertise from their staff.

Hearing Technology

Chain stores operate on a model of convenience. While there is nothing inherently wrong with this system—buying bulk can be advantageous in many ways—it does prohibit these establishments from providing customized hearing solutions. From a retail perspective, it is more beneficial for the store to only offer a few hearing aid models. This allows them to buy those models in bulk and sell them at a discounted rate. The down side to this approach is that patients may end up with generic hearing devices that does not meet his or her individual needs. Your local Houston hearing center will have a more diverse selection, allowing you to choosing the hearing aid that treats your specific type of hearing loss. 

Cost

For many prospective buyers, cost is the biggest consideration. At first glance, this is the largest advantage in favor of Big Box stores, but as hearing health professionals, we often see how less expensive, short-term solutions can quickly become a money pit. Purchasing discounted devices from chain stores or online vendors can be risky. The device may not be fitted properly; impacted ear wax may be the true cause of your hearing loss; the device might not be as advanced enough to work in wide range of settings. Before purchasing a wholesale device, first consider the long-term costs of upkeep and repairs. Many private practices include these services in the cost of the treatment plan.

Communication is an essential part of our lives, and hearing plays a key role. Before you make a decision to purchase a hearing device, be sure that the technology is personalized to match your individual hearing experience. If you or a loved one is struggling with hearing loss, we invite you to call us today at (832) 495-4277.