Are mail order hearing aids any good?

Not in my opinion. I have found that they usually whistle or cause a sore in the ear because they are not custom fit. Being a local doctor of audiology, I feel the need to speak out and warn consumers about a few disturbing ads and gimmicks that I have been seeing or hearing on the television and radio recently.

I have yet to see a mail order hearing aid that was anything but a cheap amplifier. A "real" hearing aid of quality sound is programmed to your hearing test and amplifies at specific frequencies. There is a radio ad out right now that makes a mail order hearing aid sound really good. Don't fall for it. I looked into it and sure enough it is just a cheap off the shelf amplifier. They make millions of dollars off of people that do get suckered into buying. Same thing goes for any drops or pills that claim to stop ringing of the ear, or gadgets that claim that it can remove ear wax. The best treatment comes from your local trusted audiologist and ear nose and throat physicians. Not everyone with hearing loss needs a hearing aid. Some need medication for an ear infection or could benefit from surgery how would one know without being diagnosed by a professional. Mail order aids are a real disservice to the public. Do not allow yourself to become enticed by any mail order gimmick that just ends up being a waste of your money and could possibly cause more problems or delay proper care.

The reason these ads are so rampant is that people desire a quick, cheap fix. This is not what is in your best interest. Many people will try something cheap hoping it will work and when they realize they got ripped off the price of the product isn't worth the bother of trying to return it for a refund. All of these non-returned products make tons of money for the company marketing them. That is how they can afford to keep running more of the same ads continuing the cycle of taking money from good trusting people. You get what you pay for. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. Be smart. For example, if an ad says, "free batteries for life," how long do you think that product lasts? Most likely it is not going to last very long. Quality hearing health care and treatment should be face to face with your hearing professional. Certified hearing professionals took the time and effort needed to become educated to help you with the best of their ability. Invest the time to make and keep an appointment with your local experts for the best care and outcome.

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for more than 15 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit our newly updated website www.affordablehearinginc.com for an online hearing test and helpful videos.