We’ve heard countless complaints about the high cost of hearing aids and we understand. This leads us to the question: Why are hearing aids so expensive nonetheless? Before ferocious complaints are made, let’s take a look at the contributing factors for the cost. Hopefully, there will be a deeper appreciation for what goes into the dollar amount of hearing aids.
Research and Development Costs
A sizable portion of the manufacturing costs of hearing aids consists of research and development (R&D) costs. Hearing aids may be small but the amount of time, manpower and money poured into their design and development can run into tens of millions of dollars. Engineers, researchers and scientists work together on these devices that, in turn, means more R&D costs are added.
The R&D part has produced several technological innovations that make hearing aids look, feel and function like real ears. These include directional microphones, a technology that directly focuses external sounds into the wearer’s ears; water-resistant materials that can withstand humid conditions; and smartphone-compatible hearing aids, many of which can be connected to external devices like television and radio, too. There are even hearing aids specifically designed to manage the symptoms of tinnitus.
These technological advancements didn’t come cheap! But these are welcome developments because modern hearing aids, especially cochlear implants, function like the ear in so many ways. Just think about the clunky and chunky design of hearing aids if these developments weren’t made.
Customization Costs
Unlike mass-produced products, hearing aids are best customized to the specific hearing loss of their wearers. While you can buy over-the-counter hearing aids, these aren’t as functional as customized hearing aids since these are one-size-fits-all devices. But the hearing issues and shape of the ear of each individual are unique and, thus, these over-the-counter hearing aids deliver inferior performance.
In contrast, customized hearing aids are specially fitted and programmed according to the person’s specific needs and wants. The customization also takes into account the lifestyle preferences of the individual and the sound environments he lives in.
The costs of customization add up. These include the customized hearing aids themselves as well as the extra services, such as cleanings and adjustments as well as health check-ups.
There’s also the fact that customized hearing aids will increase your quality of life and the increased costs paid for them will be worth it.
If you think you need a hearing aid, make sure to get a hearing aid prescription. For more details of our hearing test & assessment, and hearing aid services, please contact HK Hearing & Speech Centre.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aid Prescription
http://www.hkhearingspeech.com