Buying a Hearing Aid and Saving Money

If you are experiencing auditory loss that can't be repaired by a medical professional (which describes the vast majority of auditory loss), using a hearing aid may benefit you. Unfortunately, most health insurance companies fail to see why they should cover the costs of an obviously helpful medical device such as this. Why that should be is anyone's guess, but it leaves many with hearing difficulties out in the cold. It doesn't need to be that way. With some savvy shopping, you can find a good device for less. Here are some ways you can save money while you improve your ability to hear.

Shop Around

Treat this purchase as you would any other. Once you've found a model and manufacturer you like, don't feel as though you're locked in to buying it from any one store. You have the freedom to purchase a device from wherever you like. Online shopping has made it easier than ever to find a bargain. While it's recommended that you at least visit a brick and mortar location to speak with the technicians and maybe even try out some models for yourself, you can always turn around and make your actual purchase online. There are benefits to buying locally, but if you're on a strict budget, you may need to make some concessions.

Warranty

One area where you do not want to make concessions is with the warranty. A hearing aid costs too much to be forced to buy it twice if it breaks. Make sure any device you buy comes with a substantial warranty. These devices should last you ten years at least and you should try to make sure it is covered for at least a third of that time. If the manufacturer or store you're thinking of buying from doesn't offer an acceptable warranty period, think seriously about buying from someone else. Even if it costs you a bit more up front, this is one area where you can't afford to skimp.

Avoid Technology Temptation

If you're not familiar with what they've done in the hearing aid department lately, you may be laughing at the idea that you could be wooed by technology in this purchase. After all, we're not talking about buying a car or even a car stereo. Prepare to be somewhat amazed, though, at all the features offered by some of the top shelf products. It's enough to make a tech-head think about feigning deafness. If you want to stay within a budget, however, you're better off getting a basic model without all the bells and whistles.