Ask your audiologist...

What is the difference between getting hearing aid(s) from a warehouse store and a local independent office? (Part three of three parts.)

The other day, a gentleman came in to try the Lyric hearing device because he wasn't satisfied with the new hearing aids he bought at a dispensing warehouse. I looked in his ear and he was plugged with wax. That dispenser did a disservice to this gentleman. His hearing test was invalid and his hearing aid is not programmed correctly. Yes, there is a complaint process, and it is being pursued.

Ear wax removal is something I provide for my patients and is one of the most important things that I am trained to do. Elderly people are susceptible to being taken advantage of. Be careful where you go. Follow your gut. I have local primary care physicians that have sent their parents to me to be fit properly.

When the public chooses to be price-driven instead of performance- and service-driven, everyone loses. The elderly often need more specialized care, and we want offices that can serve them to be there for them. When you compare the price at the warehouse store for their contracted brand versus my price for major brands, I can't beat the base cost. But when you include my warranty and battery package, I certainly offer more for your money.

The bottom line is a warehouse store hearing center cannot compare to my education, service and expertise in the hearing industry, and therefore cannot compare to the care and service that I can offer to you.

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for over 13 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9:00 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene, (208) 664-2767. Visit www.affordablehearinginc.com for a free copy of the consumers guide to hearing aids and watch helpful videos.