Big chain hearing aid stores vs. Local hearing aid clinics, which is better?

Where do I purchase hearing aids? This is a very important question because everyone strives to get the best product at the lowest price.

However, in the case of hearing aids, this is not only savings that’s important,  but also the ability to hear the world around you and your loved ones. Therefore, it is necessary to approach the choice of model and place of purchase with caution.

Today you can purchase the devices both at the big chain hearing aid stores and at the local hearing aid clinics. As you can see, the choice is very diverse, consider online trading as well. But where can you get the best service and a complete working device, without technical failures in the future? As with other purchases we make in life, it’s important to weigh the pros/cons and make an informed decision!

How do large chain hearing aid stores attract potential buyers?

Let’s be honest and don’t deceive each other. Hearing aids are not cheap devices. Manufacturers use the most modern electronic technologies, increasing their comfort, functionality, and safety. Of course, the set of technical solutions forms the price of the devices. That is why large retail chains have paid attention to this market as well. After all, simply by selling hearing aids, they make excellent profits.

The main disadvantage of large retailers follows from this. Their main task is to sell the device in any way possible and impose maintenance strictly in their store. At the same time, the buyer may not even know that the purchased model may not suit him. Or, while using the device, a person will face various acoustic problems. This will ultimately lead to misconceptions about the benefits of hearing aids.

Choosing a hearing aid might be a daunting task, especially for beginners who are completely inexperienced in this matter. For an experienced user, it is much easier to solve the problem. Such a person already knows all the pros and cons of a model that has been in use for a long time.

Audiology Island often faces similar situations. People get frustrated with the devices they bought from the big chain stores. Some people stop using them altogether. Of course, people continue to suffer from hearing loss, not realizing that there is a simple way out of this situation.

How do big chain stores entice people?

• Mass advertising
• Discounts for “outdated” models
• “Free” consultation
• Using celebrities for brand promotion, etc

It’s not hard to understand that all the benefits of hearing aid stores are marketing gimmicks, which aim to attract customers. Dr. Stella Fulman notes that many people fall for these tricks and then regret it. After all, no advertisement will tell customers that they may face various disadvantages of chain hearing aid stores. For example:

• A limited number of models and brands. Often, big chain hearing aid stores offer a small selection of hearing aid models and styles. Such devices are limited versions of comparable models, designed specifically for wholesale with a universal approach. For example, Miracle Ear only sells hearing aids from its namesake brand. You will not find devices from other manufacturers on their shelves.

• Your hearing test results belong to the store, not you. Why is it important? Some companies advertise free hearing screening, which will help the store match your models. For example, Hear USA does this. However, this “free” approach has a downside. You will not be able to pass on your test results to another professional for a second opinion. The client is imposed on one or another model of hearing aids without considering alternatives.
• Stores do not provide complete audiology services. In their centers, there are only consultants who communicate with clients. They do not remove wax, treat tinnitus, test for dizziness or imbalance, etc. For example, Costco has certified hearing aid specialists in their They answer questions, provide information on available models, and, if equipped, conduct simple screenings. But nothing more!
• Additional expenses for membership. Several retail brands provide good options for buying and maintaining hearing aids. However, you must become a member of their community to reap the full benefits. For example, you must be a Sam’s Club member to access products and services at the Hearing Aid Center. By the way, the standard annual membership starts at $ 45.
• Limited repair options. Major retailers will only service and repair hearing aids during the duration of the relevant agreement between the retailer and the manufacturer. If the agreement breaks down in favor of a cheaper supplier or contract, you may run into problems with maintaining your devices.
• Outdated technology. Most big box retailers do not offer the same technology as you would find in a local Audiology Clinic. The model might have the same manufacturer name and state that it’s the top of the line technology, however it’s not the same top of the line technology, and is rather outdated, and uses a different chip. Therefore always do your research and compare “apples to apples”, when considering getting hearing aids in a big chain store.

There are many more “pitfalls”. We have highlighted only the most common ones that our clients often encountered. Don’t want to have a negative experience with buying a hearing aid? Contact the best hearing aid clinic, with a good reputation and a large client base!

What does Audiology Island offer to its clients?

Audiology Island is a hearing aid clinic, which has been bringing people back to hearing for years. We have already helped thousands of patients. But we do not stop at the achieved results and continue the fight against hearing loss using the most modern medical means and technologies.

Are you still in doubt about where to buy a hearing aid? Consider Audiology Island. Our clinic offers clients the following benefits:

• Individual approach. A hearing aid is a complex medical technological You can’t just go to the store and buy a model of the color you like. When choosing a model, the specialist should take into account the individual characteristics of the patient, the degree of the problem, lifestyle, personal preferences, etc. The audiologist pays attention to every detail that can affect the result. Of course, you won’t find such approaches in any hearing aid store.
• The hearing test results remain with the patient. The audiologist performs tests to find the right devices. Many local hearing aid stores do not share screening results with clients so that they do not go to competitors, and just because it’s a screening and not a full audiological evaluation that cannot be used for medical purposes. After testing at Audiology Island, all results are shared with the patient, and if necessary, forwarded to a physician if further medical intervention is needed.
• Wide range of hearing aids. Our clinic’s product range is represented by a variety of hearing aid styles and designs from the most renowned manufacturers. You can choose between Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Widex, Signia, etc. We work with every single manufacturer that’s available.
• Democratic price. Audiology Island works directly with manufacturing companies. This reduces unnecessary intermediaries, which ultimately affects the price. Of course, the final cost of the hearing aid depends on the chosen model, its functionality and starts at $500!
• Troubleshooting and maintenance. Any electronic devices break down sooner or later. Don’t panic if your little helper is out of order! Audiology Island maintains and repairs all devices sold as well as hearing aids from other well-known manufacturers.
• Additional medical services. We are not just a hearing aid clinic. First of all, we specialize in hearing loss treatment. Audiology Island provides medical hearing rehabilitation services. For example, wax removal is a common need for patients. Tinnitus treatment, balance evaluation and treatment, etc.

All this and much more you get at Audiology Island. Our local hearing aid clinic is a place of close collaboration with doctors. Here you will undergo examination and treatment by experienced doctors of audiology, and not just communicate with a consultant in retail chains.

At Audiology Island you become family. You are treated closely by the same doctors all the time, and won’t see a new face every time you come in. Our follow-up care is exceptional! Just listen to what hundreds of our patients have to say about us in our YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/user/AudiologyIsland

And most importantly, the goal of Audiology Island is to help people!

Where to purchase hearing aids?

Of course, you should think it over carefully before purchasing. Analyze the pros and cons of big chain hearing aid stores and local hearing aid clinics. Only then make an informed decision.

However, some statistics will not hurt. According to industry data, only 20-25% of big retail store customers return to buy a second set of hearing aids. Such indicators speak volumes. This means that the satisfaction rate of the services offered in those stores desires better.

Do you want quality service? Are you looking for a hearing aid, which will serve you for years to come? Do you want to hear your loved ones well and enjoy the sounds of the surrounding world? Welcome to Audiology Island!