Purchasing Hearing Aids Through the Internet

Two ways to buy hearing aids online

Through Local Providers

Some Internet hearing aid dispensers have networks of providers across the country. They will direct you to one of their member providers where you will be fitted with the hearing aids you have chosen. The local provider is paid a fee to fit you with the hearing aids and give you post-purchase service for a set period, generally ranging anywhere from 45 days to one year (available service periods depend on the dispenser you choose). This method typically adds $300-$700 dollars to the cost of each hearing aid. See Buying Hearing Aids with "Free Service".

Direct To Consumer

Direct online hearing aid sales are mostly limited to open-ear hearing aids or one-size-fits-all Completely In Canal (CIC) hearing aids. This method of purchasing works best for hearing losses up to and including moderately severe. This is the least expensive option, but is not the best option for people with severe to profound hearing loss or for people who want or need optimum fine tuning and programming of their hearing aids.

Some direct online providers have you send them a copy of the results (audiogram) of a recent hearing test conducted by a professional. They then consult with you on the hearing aids that will work with your type and amount of hearing loss. Once you place an order, they will program the hearing aids to your hearing loss and send them to you. The amount of service after the sale varies.

The Internet has changed how all business is done, even hearing aids. More and more people go to the Internet (just like you are doing right now) to gain product knowledge and check prices before or after going to local stores.

When hearing loss is ignored long enough and you are ready to do something about it, the Internet is a great tool. Most first-time hearing aid buyers are shocked when they get their hearing tested and find out how expensive hearing aids are. Next, they find out that their medical insurance probably does not cover any of the cost. Because hearing aids are rarely covered by medical insurance, it is important to check prices, especially since the money comes directly out of your pocket.

After doing an online search for the hearing aids just recommended to them by a local provider, most people are shocked to find them $1500 to $2000 cheaper per pair on the Internet.

Are hearing aids sold online the same as those sold by local providers?

Like any industry, there are reputable and non-reputable providers. Reputable providers sell hearing aids direct from the factory with full factory-supported warranties, whether they sell online or at a local, walk-in store.