The process of hearing loss treatment can sometimes feel like a maze. Each twist and turn presents new decisions, choices and things to consider. In your journey one such decision might be the choice to seek a second opinion in hearing care.
A recent case highlighted the importance of this step. Ron, a retired high school teacher who lived alone, sought advice about his hearing loss at a retail hearing aid store in his local shopping centre. His main goal was to hear his favourite TV shows better, especially game shows like The Chase on Channel 7 and be able to understand his daughter better when she visits him once a week without asking for repeats.
However, a clinician at the store advised him to purchase a pair of high-end hearing aids priced at over $10,000. The clinician also used fear-mongering practices, warning Ron that without these expensive hearing aids, he might even face the risk of developing dementia.
As an aged pension card holder, Ron was eligible for fully subsidised hearing aids through the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program. Despite this, the clinician dismissed these government-subsidised hearing aids as inadequate for his needs. Unable to afford the costly alternatives, Ron’s friend suggested he seek a second opinion with us at Hear Clear Australia.
When we met with Ron, it was very clear to us that the fullysubsidised hearing aids were perfectly suitable to his hearing goals. He does not lead a socially active lifestyle and is often in the comfort of his own home. As such, we recommended the fully-subsidised hearing aids to Ron and at his follow-up appointment, he reported that he was very happy with his new hearing aids. He reported that he could hear the TV much better and actually understood everything happening on The Chase! He also noticed that his daughter was not getting frustrated with him anymore as he asked for fewer repeats.
Ron’s story is not unique. In my opinion, the fully subsidised hearing aids meet his needs and lifestyle and his was a classic case of taking advantage of someone. A second opinion can offer valuable insight and a fresh perspective ensuring that the chosen course of action is indeed the best one for your unique situation.
Hearing aids come in various types and price ranges, and not all features may be necessary for everyone. At Hear Clear Australia, we are dedicated to providing ethical, independent advice, always prioritising our clients’ best interests. We believe a clinical decision regarding hearing aids must always be made by considering the client’s goals, lifestyle and budget.
We pride ourselves on maintaining an independent and ethical practice that acts on behalf of client’s best interests.
