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Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist:
A qualified professional whose sole
professional focus is the evaluation and identification of
hearing loss, and the fitting and servicing of hearing aids.
The National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument
Sciences was founded to establish standardized testing and
certification, in order to measure the competency of hearing
specialists. Board Certification is only given to specialists
who pass the rigorous and unbiased National Competency Exam.
This exam is recognized as a benchmark in the industry and
sets the highest standards for expertise in all aspects of
Hearing Instrument Science.
The ongoing success of your experience with
your hearing aids depends on your relationship with your
hearing health professional. It is vitally important that you:
1-
Follow
his/her instructions
2-
Visit
the office regularly
3-
Buy
your hearing aids from a dispenser close to your
residence
Just like your personal physician, your hearing
instrument specialist should be an individual you trust and
can turn to for information and help. If you are thinking
about purchasing hearing aids,
choosing the right
specialist is the most important part of your care. Don't
be afraid to ask questions and expect clear answers.
1.How
long has the specialist been in business?
2.Is
he or she established locally?
3.Is
he or she a member of the National Hearing Aid Society,
American
Speech Language and Hearing Association, Academy of Dispensing
Audiologists or other professional organizations?
4.Does
the hearing instrument specialist have a state license to
dispense hearing aids?
5.Does
the hearing instrument specialist stand behind the product and
clearly spell out the warranty and/or guarantee?
6.Does
the hearing instrument specialist offer a 30-day trial period?
7.Does
he or she represent and promote the products openly and
honestly?
8.Can
the hearing instrument specialist provide rapid and efficient
repairs if your hearing aid needs to be serviced?
9.Does
your hearing instrument specialist offer a FREE regular
maintenance program including service and cleaning?
Answering these questions will help you choose
the specialist that's right for you and then establish a good,
long-term relationship with him or her. Your specialist should
be your partner. Together you'll make the decisions that help
improve your hearing.
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