We understand trying to find a new audiologist can be a bit overwhelming. With many different clinics and professionals to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. If you add to the fact you may already be nervous about the potential hearing loss you may have, so you’re going to want an audiologist that makes you comfortable.
With that in mind, here’s our top 5 tips to find the best audiologist near you.
Location and Hours
The first step is to find an audiologist in your area with available hours that suit your schedule. Searching for a clinic close to home, work or school will not only make it easier to make it to your appointments, but you’ll be less likely to skip or cancel knowing that the office is not out of your way.
It’s essential to take into consideration any special requirements you may have. For instance, if it’s hard for you to walk long distances, is the parking lot a formidable size? If you don’t do well walking upstairs, is the building one story or two?
Also, consider office hours when looking to select an audiologist. Most clinics have plenty of appointments available during regular business hours. Pay special attention to those that offer after-hours or weekend appointments if your schedule makes it challenging to schedule it to an appointment during the day.
Location and business hours go together; if the location and hours aren’t convenient for your schedule, you are much less likely to make or keep an appointment.
The power of Referrals
Many healthcare providers rely on referrals to gain new clients. It’s an excellent way to ensure you receive quality care. Patrons trust their friends’ recommendations seven times more than conventional advertising. This is a great way to speed up the process while looking for an audiologist. People hold outstanding stock in the recommendations of their family and friends.
You can also ask your primary care physician for assistance when looking for an audiologist. Most doctors will know several reputable audiologists that can provide you with quality service.
Do Your Research
Take some time and do a little bit of research. The internet is a great place to find and review an audiologist that you may consider visiting. See what other people’s experiences were and what they had to say about the audiologist or clinic you are considering.
Try to stick to independent review platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Yelp, to name a few. These platforms are the best because they will give you truthful, unbiased information about the company, without any influence over what is posted.
Aside from reviews, you’ll want to consider the amount of time they have been in business. Not to say that an audiologist or clinic that has recently opened couldn’t provide you with excellent service, however, the chances are that if they have been in business for 20-30 years or longer, they are continuing to have shown success with their clients. They will most likely provide you with the highest quality of care through more experience
Is your Insurance Accepted?
Making sure your insurance is accepted—is a great way to start narrowing down potential audiologists. And while most insurances will not cover hearing aids, some will cover the diagnostic hearing testing cost. Be sure to check with your provider to determine who is within your network and what hearing benefits they will cover.
Some insurances will require a referral from your primary care physician before covering any costs associated with your hearing. Make sure to find out what is covered and what is not before booking an audiologist appointment, so you don’t end up with any unexpected charges.
Book a consultation
It is essential to understand that you are not locked into using the services of one specific audiologist or clinic. Set up an appointment and feel things out. If you are not impressed or don’t feel like it is a good fit for you, you are not bound to that provider.
One of the best ways to find out if a particular audiologist or clinic is right for you is to book an appointment to simply get the help you need. You will find the process is not as difficult as you may believe. The audiologist is there to help you and be able and willing to answer all of your questions. It’s recommended to bring someone with you ( a family member or friend) to help assess and take notes during the appointment.
Contact Salem Audiology Clinic
Looking for an audiologist in the Salem, Keizer, or Woodburn area that has been serving the community for nearly 40 years.? In that case, you won’t be disappointed With Salem Audiology Clinic and Woodburn hearing center. Call us today at 503-877-1684 or in Woodburn at 503-505-9622.
Our audiologists work with you to help find a solution to your hearing health needs. We take pride in educating our patients and look forward to answering any questions you may have to help you get your hearing health back on track. So you never miss another moment.