Hearing aids made simple

Hearing aid technology has become complicated, but hearing health doesn't have to be. The Doctors of Audiology at Johnson Audiology will be hosting an educational seminar Monday, March 10th at 1a.m. to inform the public about changes in the hearing health care field. Lunch for this event will be catered by Olive Garden and for your convenience, Johnson Audiology will repeat this seminar at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 14th. Space is limited, so mark your calendar now and reserve your seat by calling Johnson Audiology at (423) 933-3623.

The hearing health care field has evolved. "Between the multitude of hearing aid manufacturers and the ever-changing models of hearing aids...choosing a hearing aid is difficult, but choosing the right audiology practice can be easy," said audiologist, Dr. Megan Johnson. "How much should a hearing aid cost? What hearing aid is best for me? Why are there such extreme price differences for hearing aids?" Dr. Johnson continued, "We want to simplify the search for better hearing and support patients as they learn to embrace amplification."

"At our office, the price is determined by the level of technology, not by the size or style of the device," explained Dr. Courtney Guthrie, audiologist. "We do not advertise 'cheap' hearing aids, because they are Class II medical devices, not used cars."

Dr. Anna Wade, audiologist, noted that as the field of audiology has grown, so have the options for treating hearing loss. "Hearing aid manufactures spend millions of dollars on research and development every year. So the recommendations today for an individual's hearing loss may be different than just a few years ago. Because of the advances in this field, audiologists are required to attend continuing education courses yearly. This allows them to direct patients to the most up-to-date and appropriate amplification."

"Hearing is a medical issue, not a gadget issue. Unfortunately, people are able to dispense hearing aids without advanced clinical or graduate level degrees," Dr. Guthrie explained. "At Johnson Audiology, we believe our top level education allows us to provide top level care. That's why all of our audiologists have invested the time to become doctors in this field." Dr. Guthrie continued, "Hearing devices are medical devices. It is important to partner with a qualified audiologist that can address your specific hearing loss and needs." Drs. Johnson and Wade added that by seeing an audiologist, patients can be sure they will get the specific care they need. Most importantly, patients will not be frustrated by trying to research their condition on their own and possibly not get the device they need.

"For some people, hearing loss can be difficult to accept," said Dr. Johnson. "We educate, counsel and train patients before, during, and after diagnosing their hearing loss. We feel that our education, compassion, and desire to help patients improve their quality of life through better hearing is confirmed by our patient and physician referrals which remain vital to our practice."

Dr. Wade added that if you go elsewhere for your hearing healthcare, inquire about the provider's educational background. If you are getting a free hearing test that is followed by a high pressure sales pitch, it should raise red flags regarding the type of "professional" you are seeing.

Other topics to be addressed at the seminar include what proprietary hearing devices are and how they can be limiting to the patient; the dangers and struggles of self-diagnosing via the Internet; technology and devices available; and amplifiers versus hearing devices.

"We want this to be an educational experience whether it's you dealing with hearing loss, a friend, or a family member that you would like to see hearing and participating in life...please don't miss this opportunity," said Dr. Courtney Guthrie.

Lunch will be catered by Olive Garden, and there is no cost to those who attend, but seating is limited, so please call ahead to reserve a seat.