The first step towards better hearing involves consulting one of our audiologists. Your audiologist will assess your hearing and guide you through the available technologies that may assist your problem. Together you will choose which technology best suits your needs and budget.
What can be done to improve your hearing?
- Use correctly fitted hearing aids
- Use good communication strategies
Are all Hearing Aids the Same?
Hearing aids range in:
- Style and size
- Technology
- Flexibility
- Microphone array
- Effectiveness within a noisy environment
All of the above factors are reflected in price.
Benefits of Improved Hearing
The majority of hearing aid wearers reported significantly improved quality of life including improvements in:
- personal relationships
- self-esteem
- overall health
Family members reported an average of 15% greater benefit than the hearing instrument wearer.
Hearing Aid Costs - What's included?
The cost of hearing aids incorporates many things. The cost includes audiological time and service such as assessment, consultation, fitting and prescription and follow-up services. The hearing aid itself has research and development costs before a manufacturer can release a product. For the more advanced technologies these may involve 10 years of research and hundreds of thousands of dollars before a single aid is sold.
Price Range
The cost of better hearing ranges from around $1400 for a basic digital instrument to over $4000 for a top of the range digital device. In between this range there are several alternatives. Generally speaking, the smaller the device, the more expensive it will be. The more advanced technology (remote controls, multi-channel, directional microphones) the more expensive it will be.
Warranties
Most hearing aids carry a 2 to 3 year warranty, with some top of the line devices carrying a 3 to 4 year warranty. This means that any repairs carry no charge during the warranty period. Extra years of warranty can be purchased at the time of testing if you wish to extend the period. Otherwise the cost of repairs can range from $80 to $200.
Batteries
Batteries are an ongoing cost for hearing aid users. Generally a packet of 6 will cost around $10. Central Queensland Hearing has a battery subscription club which costs $50 for 1 aid and $100 for 2 aids and covers all batteries for a 12 month period.
Rebates
Medicare and private health funds generally do not rebate for hearing tests. Private health funds provide rebates for the cost of hearing aids for those members with the appropriate level of cover. Clients are advised to check their cover with their health fund prior to hearing aid fitting and purchase.
Claiming on Tax
You may also claim the cost of your hearing aids on your tax return. In any financial year, if your medical costs exceed $1500, you can claim the difference on your return at a rate of 20%. For example if your hearing aids cost $4000 and you claimed $800 from your health fund, you may claim the difference ($3200 - $1500 = $1700 x .20 = $340 ).
For further information regarding 'hearing aids' click here.
