An Honest Viewpoint on The Cost of Hearing Aids

07/11/2024 | Hearing Aids, Patient Resources

Hearing aids aren’t actually the expensive part; sure, they’re top-tier tech that deserves a pretty penny, but what can get expensive is the way you purchase them.

Have you ever wondered why hearing aids are so expensive? It’s a question we get a lot in our clinic – and I can’t blame people for wondering why the price point differs depending on where you go! 

Hearing aids aren’t actually the expensive part; sure, they’re top-tier tech that deserves a pretty penny, but what can get expensive is the way you purchase them. 

There’s the bundled model… and the unbundled model. Here, I’ll explain both. 

Bundled Model 

This is the most common format for purchasing hearing aids and the reason they have a reputation of being expensive. 

In the bundled model, you’re getting that advanced hearing aid technology – but you’re also paying for professional services associated with the hearing aids themselves, like maintenance appointments, cleanings, hearing aid repairs, and programming adjustments. 

For some people, this isn’t their first time at the rodeo; they know how hearing aids work, what works best for their unique hearing, and what they need out of their devices. A lot of these extra services are useful but for some individuals, not needed. 

That’s where the unbundled model comes in. 

Unbundled Model 

At Flex Audiology, we offer what’s called the “unbundled model.” With that model, you purchase your hearing aid devices, and you’ll get those additional services for a 30-day trial period. 

During that trial period, you’re free to come see us with any questions about whether the hearing aids are working best for what you want and need, especially given the specific listening environments you’re listening in daily. 

After that 30-day trial, your appointments with us will be on a pay-as-you-go basis. Our average patient comes in roughly twice a year for maintenance checks and programming adjustments, but for patients that know how their devices work and how to clean them, this can be a cost-effective option. 

Which Option Is Best for Me? 

That depends on whether this is your first pair of hearing aids or not. For patients who are familiar with hearing devices and what they need to succeed, the unbundled option could be a big help for them, as they’ll be able to get appointments as needed for any help they need. 

For those who are new to hearing aids, the bundled option may come at a more expensive price point, but it’s worth it to know that no matter your question, your hearing care team is ready to help you with every step you take on your hearing health journey. 

How Flex Audiology Can Help  

Got any more questions about hearing care or hearing aids?

We’re happy to answer them! 

Please feel free to request a callback and a member of our team will get in touch with more information and answers to your burning questions. 

Don’t want to wait? For a more immediate conversation, please call us at (812) 532-3011. 

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Dr. Person Au.D, CCC-A

Dr. Person has been a private practice owner since 2005. She currently specializes in hearing aids, tinnitus management and vestibular diagnostics, while operating in an unbundled service delivery model. Dr. Person is the host of The Unbundled Audiologist podcast. She serves as the incoming VP of Audiology for ISHA for a three year term. Her greatest accomplishment is creating a life where she can serve others while still spending quality time with her husband and two small children.

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