Looking for hearing aid cost online might seem tricky, and this is because there is no set answer. A wide range of factors affects the price of hearing aids. For starters, some patients may get financial assistance or health insurance support. Prices are also affected by the patient’s degree of hearing loss, the device model, the patient’s preferences, and the features and technologies used to power the device.
In Australia, hearing aid cost ranges from about $700 for entry-level hearing aids to approximately $3700 for highly advanced devices. In this article, we uncover the benefits of hearing aid devices as well as some of the factors that influence the price tag.
What Impacts The Price?
The cost of hearing aid solutions is determined by various factors, including:
- Technical specifications
- Hearing aid style and size
- Features and capabilities
Hearing aids with the latest wireless technologies tend to be more expensive than less advanced models. Custom hearing aids worn in the ear (ITE) are often more expensive than behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid devices.
Comparing Hearing Aid Devices
When looking for a hearing aid, it’s important to compare different hearing devices and suppliers, ask plenty of questions and educate yourself on the differences and features of various hearing aids.
Some low-cost entry-level versions enhance basic hearing and allow you to enjoy and appreciate small-group conversations. However, if you want a wider variety of capabilities and value high-fidelity sound, you may want to consider investing in a premium model with more features.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Devices
The most prevalent form of hearing aid is a BTE hearing aid. The functional components of these devices are housed in an outer shell that sits behind the ear. The sound travels through the ear canal through a hollow plastic tube known as an earmold. This kind of hearing aid is appropriate for people of all ages with mild to severe hearing loss.
In-The-Canal (ITC) Devices
ITC and invisible in the canal (IIC) hearing aids are the most suitable choices for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. These devices are extremely discreet, but because of their small size, they often do not have the same scope of functionality as Behind The Ear (BTE) headphones. They are also a bit trickier to adjust.
Receiver-In-The Ear (RITE) Devices
Receiver in the Ear (RITE) hearing aids, also known as Receiver in Canal (RIC), are a hybrid blend of ITC and BTE hearing aids. The hearing aid is connected to the receiver through a discrete cable, which transfers sound directly into the ear. They deliver high-quality sound enhancement using the latest digital hearing aid technology.
This form of hearing aid is suitable for all degrees of hearing loss and allows for varied receiver power levels. This enables the RITE hearing aid to be totally customised to the patient’s requirements and hearing levels.
In-The-Ear (ITE) Devices
ITE hearing aids are designed to fit entirely into the outer ear and are suitable for mild to severe cases of hearing loss. These devices can be programmed for telecoil functionality, which assists in the comprehension of telephone calls. As the patient ages, this device requires professional removal and replacement. As a result, ITE aids may not be appropriate for treating hearing loss in children.
Get Advice Today
No matter what your degree of hearing loss or age, there will be a device to suit your needs.
Here at the proudly Australian-owned and operated Advanced Hearing Aid Centre, we guide and support you throughout your journey from diagnosis to fitment. This involves hearing testing to determine the degree of hearing loss as well as advice regarding treatment in terms of hearing aid cost, style and eventual fitment.
Once fitted, we can assist with regular maintenance and repair to ensure your device performs optimally and fits comfortably.
Get in touch today to learn more about our services, the cost of a hearing aid, or determine if you qualify for a free hearing aid device from the Office of Hearing Service Program.