Trouble Hearing and Understanding? Get a Diagnostic Hearing Test.
Hearing is very complicated. There are many reasons why people can have hearing loss and not all hearing loss is the same. There are different types and degrees of hearing loss. But where is the problem? What part(s) of the ear is/are involved? Does the auditory cortex (hearing part of the brain) have trouble decoding messages coming from the ear itself? Why?
Testing the entire hearing pathway
The only reliable way to find out what is going on with our hearing and what treatment choices there are, is to get a professional, diagnostic hearing evaluation. Diagnostic hearing tests are done in audiology clinics by trained professionals using calibrated testing equipment.
These tests are comprehensive. Step #1 of the procedure is a thorough visual inspection of the outer ears and their structures, which can identify already basic issues such as earwax plugs, fluid accumulation and infections.
Ultimately, diagnostic hearing tests evaluate the entire sound pathway – from what goes into the ear to what we ultimately hear and understand. They test air conduction and bone conduction hearing as well as brain responses. They can tell the location and the extent of blockages or damage. Finally, the test results determine what type of treatment will be the most helpful for the diagnosis.
Online hearing assessments
Nowadays, online hearing tests are also available. Hearing aid manufacturers and vendors may offer these quick and cost-free hearing screening tools on their websites. Although they may provide information on basic hearing function, these tests are not diagnostic. However, the results can let the user know if there are obvious issues and if more in-depth professional testing is needed. You might consider some online reviews. For example, here is what the National Council on Aging shares about six online tests that they reviewed. But as it is often said, keep on Googling. There are a lot more options.
Costs
Professional hearing tests do cost money. Out-of-pocket expenses can run up to $250 and even more. Some clinics make allowances for the cost of the test if the client purchases hearing aids from them. Always double-check the price and confirm what your insurance company might cover. Some Medicare Part C Advantage Plans may offer at least some hearing help through special Networks. Be sure that the clinic that has been chosen to do the hearing tests participates in the Network.
That said, Medicare Part B covers some diagnostic hearing tests. Be sure to review the details. In general, Medicare Part B pays 80% of the Medicare-allowed charges while the patient pays the other 20%. However, the test must be prescribed by a physician or health care provider who participates in Medicare. The order must be issued for a diagnostic hearing evaluation that is necessary to help determine if treatment is necessary. Also, be sure that the testing site accepts Medicare pay.
Don’t delay!
According to statistics, people procrastinate an average of 7 years before seeking answers on hearing issues that have interfered with their quality of life for some time. Don’t delay! Learn the truth for early help. Where or what is the problem? Can something be fixed? Find out if, where and how much of a loss there is. Call me old-fashioned, but knowing how important a correct diagnosis is, I prefer to get the opinion of a trained professional. But that’s just me! Nowadays, in the times of do-it-yourself hearing care, the choice is all ours.