|
Home | Medical-Newswire.Com:
|
(EMAILWIRE.COM, March 24, 2009 ) When choosing hearing aids, cost is a primary patient concern. Other factors can also play a role, including comfort, appearance, color, and ease of adjustment. In this article, Hearing Central LLC, an American manufacturer and Internet retailer of digital hearing aids, offers tips on purchasing the right hearing aid.
There are four basic “form factors” of hearing aids: BTE with molded tips, BTE with open fit tip technology, in the ear models, and the smallest ones called Completely in the Canal (CIC) models. For all these form factors, various color options are are available, depending on the manufacturer.
BTE hearing aids come with either analog or digital circuitry. Analog BTE hearing aids consist of a large case that sits behind the ear and a thick tube connecting that case to the ear canal. These are the largest, most visible hearing aids. They are also the most common and were previously the only type of hearing aids available. Currently, most hearing aids are digital. Both BTE models use an "earhook" extension that allows the tube and tip assembly to attach to the hearing aid case behind the ear. Because of their smaller size, digital BTE models are usually more comfortable and more powerful than their analog counterparts. They are usually recommended for people with severe to profound hearing loss.
BTE open fit hearing aids are smaller than the BTE earhook models and are built with digital technology. These hearing aids are often recommended for those with mild, or moderate to severe hearing loss, and those with high frequency hearing loss.
Because BTE open fit hearing aids use a standard tip with holes in it rather than a custom molded tip, patients claim they offer a better listening experience. Open fit hearing aids can also cost significantly less than custom molded BTE models, as well as other in the ear hearing aid types.
In the ear hearing aids feature a case that rests in the outer portion of the ear and a piece that goes into the ear canal. Sometimes it is all one piece. They're slightly visible, but don't involve a hook or tube worn over the ear to support an outer case. They can have either a custom molded tip that goes in the ear canal, or standard tips that look like mushroom caps.
In the ear models with custom molds can be more expensive than basic analog BTE hearing aids, but are often less expensive than custom molded BTEs or open fit models.
CIC models are the least obvious because they fit completely in the ear canal. These hearing aids are usually recommended for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. The plus side to these models is that it is almost impossible to see them. Problems associated with this hearing aid type include difficulty in removing or adjusting and there is the greater potential of wax buildup in the hearing aid itself causing a malfunction. CIC hearing aids also tend to come at a higher cost than other in the ear models.
“A customer has a number of options when choosing a hearing aid,” says Phil Wyatt, CEO of Hearing Central LLC. “BTE or in the ear models, price, custom or open fit, color, manufacturer, and whether to order online or purchase from an audiologist. Some types are more affordable, but they may feel too large and cumbersome for some patients. Others can be almost completely concealed in the ear canal, but they might be more difficult to adjust or easily get plugged up with wax. Making the right decision the first time can save a lot of money."
Hearing Central LLC manufactures and sells hearing aids for thousands less than competitive brands. They currently feature two hearing aid lines: the digi-Ear in the canal hearing aids and the Melody BTE Open Fit line. All models can be custom programmed from an audiogram for a patientÂ’s unique hearing loss, enabling patients to find the right fit for their needs and budget.
About Hearing Central LLC
Hearing Central LLC is an Illinois-based manufacturer and Internet retailer of hearing aids. The company is committed to bringing consumers top quality, American-made hearing aids at wholesale prices by cutting out the middle man. They pride themselves on offering affordable hearing aids at around a 75% discount when compared to similar models sold in hearing professional offices. All models are manufactured and sold according to FDA standards. Hearing Central is a sister company of Medical Central Online and Patient Net, which have provided medical solutions and consulting services to hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies since 1996.
For more information about Hearing Central LLC, to arrange an interview, or to learn more about cost-efficient hearing aid options, please visit www.HearingAidsCentral.com or www.HearingAidCentral.com, or contact Phil Wyatt at 847-295-6946.
Hearing Aids Central
Phil Wyatt
847-295-6946
phil@hearingcentral.com 
Source: EmailWire.com
|
|
|
|
