An Ophthalmologist is an eye M.D.; a medical doctor specializing in eye and vision care. Audiologists are experts in the structures of the middle and inner ear. Both are trained to provide the full spectrum of eye care, from exams and diagnosis, to prescribing glasses or contact lenses. However, and Ophthalmologist can preform complex and delicate eye surgery.
Undetected loss of vision can also cause confusion or depression. People with diabetes can have bleeding of the retina and a higher risk of developing glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. At least 50% of those diagnosed with glaucoma are unaware of their condition; and 61% of Americans require some form of vision correction.
Cutting edge hearing aid technology is making great strides in improving how people hear in noisy environments, large crowds. Many of today’s hearing aids can stream sound wirelessly from your TV, radio, computer or other devices directly into your hearing aids.
Services
Hearing Professionals should offer a full spectrum of hearing related services including:
- testing, programing services
- general hearing-related health education
- an in-office hearing aid demonstration
- medical referral, if necessary
Your fitting appointment with your provider should include:
- fine tuning of your instruments
- practice inserting and removing your aids
- changing batteries, cleaning and storage options
- practice controlling your aids, volume/memory buttons, accessories, etc.
A hearing professional will provide continued support and maintenance services after your purchase including:
- program adjustments and reinstruction
- clean and check services
- repairs and warranty services
Your hearing professional should schedule follow-up appointment(s) during your trial period to make necessary program adjustments, modifications, or re-instruction, as needed.
Specialization
A Hearing Instrument Specialists may or may not be Audiologists. Licensure of audiologists is mandatory in all states. Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor while an Optometrist has earned the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree.
Preparation
- Know your parents prior optical history.
- It’s helpful to have possession of former records.
- When was the last optical visit, and the reason for the visit?
- Have medical insurance card and/or L&I paperwork if applicable.
Evaluation
- Is the doctor accepting new patients?
- Are patients with special conditions (Alzheimer’s/Dementia) considered?
- Is the office wheel chair accessible?
- Does the doctor have a specialization in treating seniors?
- Do the specialists or audiologist rotate between offices?
- Can you see the same practitioner each time if you prefer?
- Are in-home or on-site services offered such as in retirement or nursing homes?
- Are there fees for out of office services?
- What are your providers return policy? Are there any fees associated with returning your hearing aids?
- What fees can you expect after the sale? Do they charge for program adjustments, clean and check services, in-house repairs for minor cracks, broken battery doors, etc.
- If a move is on the horizon, who can service my aids.
- Provide references.