What to Know Before Your First Appointment at HearUSA
HearUSA was established in 1987 and has more than 250 locations throughout the United States. It's also a part of The Sivantos Group, which is a globally recognized hearing aid company.
According to a Consumer Reports survey in 2018, HearUSA is the third-highest rated hearing aid center just behind Costco and Connect Hearing. Reviewers gave it above average scores in the areas of evaluation, discussion, options, answering questions, courtesy, training, follow-up service and price transparency. Consumer Reports members can see the full ratings and reviews here.
What Hearing Aids Are Available at HearUSA?
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC): This type of hearing aid is the smallest custom option. According to HearUSA, it's made to be discreet but may have a limited number of features and options.
- In-the-canal (ITC): This hearing aid is also custom made, but it's typically a little bigger than the CIC models. This can make it easier to work with and also may include access to additional features.
- In-the-ear (ITE): This is the largest in-ear custom-made option, but it provides access to multiple features and it may be the easiest to handle.
- Open-fit behind-the-ear (BTE): This model sits behind the ear with a small microphone that fits in the ear canal. It's also a discreet option that allows for natural airflow that may be blocked by other hearing aids.
- Behind-the-ear (BTE): This type of hearing aid also rests behind your ear and is attached to a tube or custom-made mold to deliver sound.
To learn more about each type of hearing aid as well as other hearing enhancement products and technology, visit HearUSA's website.
When it comes to specific brands and models, you'll find no shortage of options at HearUSA. In fact, there are more than 250 hearing aid models available according to the company's website. Unfortunately, you can't browse the available selection online. Instead, your hearing care provider can recommend brands and models that will best suit you after your first visit. Once you've chosen a device, HearUSA will order it for you directly from the manufacturer.
I called my nearest HearUSA location to ask about the hearing aids that are available. I was told that while their hearing care professionals most often go with a Signia hearing aid, if you have a specific brand or device in mind, they'll likely be able to order it for you.
In addition to hearing aids, HearUSA sells accessories, batteries and other hearing enhancing devices, including adaptive telephones and personal sound amplifiers, through the online Hearing Shop.
How Much Do Hearing Aids at HearUSA Cost?
Like most hearing aid centers, HearUSA doesn't list its prices online for this reason. I called my nearest HearUSA location to ask about the average cost for hearing aids, and I was told that while the price can vary greatly, hearing aids tend to range from $1,200 to $4,000 per ear.
A 2019 survey by Consumer Reports revealed that respondents typically spent $2,691 out of pocket for a pair of hearing aids. That means that a single hearing aid would cost around $1,345. Based on that data, HearUSA offers relatively average prices with advanced models that are more costly.
Your health insurance may cover some of the costs at HearUSA, and the company offers financing through Allegro.
If the total cost is an important factor for you when it comes to buying hearing aids, know that you may find more competitive prices available at iHEAR Medical or Costco.
How To Book an Appointment
If you want to request an appointment online, visit HearUSA's website and use the locator tool to find your nearest location. Once you've found the hearing center you'd like to visit, click "Request Appointment."
COVID-19 Response
According to the website, HearUSA is re-opening its centers across the country. Like other hearing centers, HearUSA says it's following guidelines of local, state and federal health officials.
- Limiting the number exams offered each hour
- Limiting the number of patients in-store at one time
- Providing masks and gloves to providers
- Cleaning all equipment and surfaces
- Providing disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizers
- Encouraging social distancing
For more information on HearUSA's COVID-19 safety precautions, visit the website online or call your nearest hearing center. Additionally, you can find a list of HearUSA center re-openings here.
Using Insurance at HearUSA
HearUSA accepts most major insurance plans, but coverage can vary based on your specific plan and location.
Your health insurance may cover the cost of your hearing aid and other hearing services. You may also be able to use funds from an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account).
The company recommends that you schedule a free hearing screening at your nearest HearUSA center to discuss your insurance coverage. Of course, you can also use the online store locator to find the phone number of a center near you and call to ask for a benefits check. When you call, you should have your insurance card with you, and make sure it has your policy and group numbers on it.
In addition to accepting health insurance, financing is also available at HearUSA through Allegro.
Free Services and Follow-Up Care Information
HearUSA offers a few free services including an instant online hearing evaluation that can help you determine whether or not you may need a hearing aid.
You can also schedule a free in-person hearing screening to talk to a hearing care professional about your hearing status and options. During the free hearing screening, you'll also be able to determine whether or not your insurance will cover the cost of hearing devices.
Beyond free hearing screenings, AARP members are eligible for a variety of other benefits and free services. According to the website, those benefits include:
- 20% off retail pricing
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- Three-year manufacturer warranty
- Three-year supply of hearing aid batteries
- Free one-year follow-up care
Additional limited-time offers and exclusive savings may also be available. Be sure to check HearUSA's website for the latest offers. At the time of writing, HearUSA was offering a $25 gift card when you take a free hearing screening. That's a great deal!
Final Thoughts
Pros:
- Free Hearing Test: You can take a free hearing evaluation online and get a free in-person hearing screening at your nearest HearUSA location. Plus, the free in-person exam is easy to schedule.
- AARP Member Benefits: If you're an AARP member, you'll have access to exclusive savings and benefits including a free three-year supply of hearing aid batteries and 20% off.
- Free Follow-Up Care: Patients who cover the full cost of their hearing aids on their own get free follow-up care during the lifetime of the device they purchase from HearUSA. Plus, you'll typically get a three-year limited warranty.
Cons:
- Pricing: The cost of hearing aids at HearUSA can range from $1,200 to $4,000 each. If the total cost is a big factor for you, you might find better deals at iHEAR Medical or Costco.
- Ordering: Unfortunately, you can't order hearing aids online from HearUSA. You will have to call or schedule an appointment online and visit in person to buy a hearing aid.
- Location: Be sure to check and see if there's a HearUSA close by. I wasn't able to find stores in a handful of major cities.
If you do decide to make an appointment at HearUSA, be sure to take advantage of the free hearing screening and check for special offers online to get the best deal.
Where do you purchase your hearing aids? Let us know in the comments below!
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