[Bilyclub]

Originally Posted by Heytubes

The over the counter aids are not generally fitted to the wearer’s heating loss range, plus I understand they just amplify sound. I have Phonak and love them compared to others I’ve had in the past. They are fitted to the ear via wax plus high/low frequency range is formatted to your degree of hearing loss. Don’t think over the counter Costco does that.

Yeah, the techs I have dealt with at Costco do a very thorough hearing test and tune the aids accordingly. You do not walk in and buy them off a shelf. I have a 6 year replacement warranty thanks to the Costco credit card. Don't knock something until you try it.

[villagerjack]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

Personally, I would get a second opinion. Costco sells several different types of hearing aids, and they are less expensive than most.

She did not get a first opinion yet so she cannot get a second one.

[villagerjack]

I now have the Phonac Aids which I received from the Vets. They are the best I ever had. They came with the TV connection and a separate microphone that my wife can wear when going out to dinner. The AP controls hearing in different locations like restaurants etc. I have severe hearing loss ans these were recommended by the Vets very patient and comprehensive Hearing Expert.

[Two Bills]

Originally Posted by Stu from NYC

We pay a good amount for the hearing aids and do find a need for a visit several times a year with no extra cost. In addition once a year at least he does a hearing test and adjusts the hearing aid as necessary.

As I said, after a while aid wearers soon know when sound is not perfect, and I go for a re-tune then.
I have a test every two years as there is little change, I am profoundly deaf, and the hearing loss is pretty minimal these days.
Used to go annually many years ago.
Compared to UK. you get a pretty good deal for aids in America.
Like most things here we get shafted royally.
Then to round things off, the government sticks 20% VAT on the things!

[pokeefe45@aol.com]

Originally Posted by Arlington2

I agree with this. UHC Advantage has 2 mechanisms to purchase hearing aids - 1) in person with an audiologist and 2) virtual care where everything is done online. I learned they are separate activities and you go one way or the other at purchase. The virtual sounds very inviting to me as I am comfortable dealing online, but have no personal experience. Presently I must go to an audiologist for adjustments. I would be interested in folks experience with the online option.

I purchased online with UHC and had a 'Zoom' initial call with their audiologist to ensure I understood the 'app' that comes with them as well as the best practices. She offered to do a follow up Zoom in 90 days and be available anytime I needed to ask a question, but never really had any questions or issues after that. If you are comfortable with remote video calls, it's the way to go-there's no 'upselling' in that kind of environment with UHC-their only goal is to get you the right product.

[Stu from NYC]

Originally Posted by Two Bills

As I said, after a while aid wearers soon know when sound is not perfect, and I go for a re-tune then.
I have a test every two years as there is little change, I am profoundly deaf, and the hearing loss is pretty minimal these days.
Used to go annually many years ago.
Compared to UK. you get a pretty good deal for aids in America.
Like most things here we get shafted royally.
Then to round things off, the government sticks 20% VAT on the things!

I find the changes are gradual so for us best to have scheduled appt so they can be adjusted as needed.

Phonak pair I am wearing cost $ 5000 with 1000 picked up by insurance. How much were yours? Surprised they stick a 20% vat onto your cost.

[Just jimmy]

Originally Posted by Heytubes

The over the counter aids are not generally fitted to the wearer’s heating loss range, plus I understand they just amplify sound. I have Phonak and love them compared to others I’ve had in the past. They are fitted to the ear via wax plus high/low frequency range is formatted to your degree of hearing loss. Don’t think over the counter Costco does that.

.

Actually the costco ones are phonak with only the Costco name on them. They are adjusted to your hearing loss. My husband has them.

Judy