Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hearing aid specialist the same as an audiologist?

The distinctions between audiologists and hearing aid specialists are so subtle that it is not surprising for people to be confused about which professional to consult. However, there are some important differences in what these two professions can do for you. A hearing aid specialist will test your hearing and fit you with a hearing aid. Audiologists can assess and diagnose a larger range of hearing and balance problems. Audiologists are more skilled than hearing aid specialists, and your doctor may refer you to one to learn more about your specific case.

Can you self refer to an audiologist?

If you are willing to pay for audiology treatments out of pocket, you can self-refer to an audiologist. There is no need to contact a doctor if you self-refer. However, before you can use your insurance to cover the consultation, testing, and other associated costs, you must acquire a doctor’s recommendation. Some audiology clinics refuse walk-ins (save for current patients), whereas others do. To save time and effort, we recommend that you contact your preferred clinic.

Do you need a doctor's referral for a hearing evaluation?

It is possible to have a hearing evaluation without seeing a doctor. Many private hearing clinics provide hearing evaluations for walk-in patients. However, if you want to use your insurance to pay for your hearing evaluation, either partially or totally, you must first obtain a referral since most insurance companies need one as a basis for reimbursement.

Is a hearing aid dispenser the same as an audiologist?

An audiologist is a doctorate-level hearing anatomy specialist. You must be qualified, apply for a license, and have extensive expertise with hearing aids to operate as a hearing aid dispenser. An audiologist must have both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in audiology. A supervised externship is required before getting national certification and a state license. An audiologist may be more appropriate for medically related services such as balance issues, impacted earwax, and noise-induced hearing loss.

What does an audiologist treat?

Audiology is the branch of scientific research dealing with problems associated with hearing and balance. Audiologists are specialists that primarily offer healthcare for these disorders by conducting a wide variety of hearing evaluations to diagnose and treat a wide variety of hearing issues.. Audiologists diagnose and treat hearing problems and recommend the best hearing aids for a specific type of hearing loss. The expertise of audiologists is not limited to hearing problems; they can also handle earwax removal and tinnitus management.

How Do I Choose A Hearing Aid?

Before purchasing a hearing aid, we recommend that you have your hearing evaluated by a hearing specialist or audiologist. If you are currently looking for an audiologist in the area, our audiologists at PA Center for Hearing and Balance will be more than happy to serve you. With years of experience, hundreds of clients served and countless hearing aids programmed, you can be assured that you are in good and expert hands.

What Is The Cause Of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus or ringing in the ears is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of some other underlying health condition. Tinnitus is commonly related to hearing loss and individuals who are experiencing symptoms should see a medical professional or an audiologist to be properly diagnosed; stress, exposure to loud sounds or noises may cause ringing in the ears. If you or a family member is experiencing tinnitus symptoms, audiologists at PA Center for Hearing and Balance can carry out hearing exams to accurately determine the real degree of hearing loss. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Can You Hear Better After Ear Wax Removal?

Earwax is a natural occurrence in the human anatomy but if it is not handled or managed properly, it can trigger chronic infections in the eardrum and ear canal. To protect the integrity of the ear, earwax removal should be handled by an audiologist or an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor. Earwax removal is a crucial case especially when it involves kids or already causes pain or inflammation. It is highly recommended that an audiologist or a hearing health care professional should handle ear wax removal to ensure a smooth sailing procedure and to avoid hearing loss or other related complications. At PA Center for Hearing and Balance, we see to it that the earwax removal experience is pleasant and convenient. Earwax removal generally causes no pain and does not need painkillers or anesthesia.

How Is A Hearing Evaluation Done?

A hearing evaluation is performed in a sound both or a sound-proof room. Patients will be asked to wear headphones or earplugs connected to a device that sends sounds of different volumes and pitches to one ear at a time. At times, patients may be asked to respond to the sounds or tones by raising a hand or pressing a button each time you hear a prompt. A hearing evaluation should take about 20-30 minutes.