Hearing Test Cost

• Hearing tests can cost nothing or can be as much as $250 for people without insurance, depending upon the clinic and the practitioner performing the test. Hearing specialists known as audiologists typically charge at the higher end of the price range. Many hearing aid vendors offer free hearing screenings, but may pressure the patient to purchase hearing aids through their company.
• Most insurance companies cover routine hearing tests. However. patients should check with their carrier to see if regular copays and deductibles apply. Copays for office visits range between $5 and $75, depending upon the insurance company. The average insured individual in the U.S. has a $19 office visit copay.

• A hearing screening will begin with an oral evaluation. The practitioner will ask about any hearing difficulties or past infections. If the patient is a child, the doctor or audiologist will ask about any speech or learning issues.
• The hearing test should include a physical examination of the ear, during which the physician will use an otoscope to look at the middle ear and the eardrum. The screening will include tympanometry, which tests for fluid or pressure in the middle ear and perforation of the eardrum. The practitioner will insert a tool into the ear canal. This tool will release a sound wave and will measure how the sound waves moves within the ear.
• Audiometry tests, also included, require that the patient listen for sounds of different decibels, pressing a button or saying something when the sound is heard. This test is given to make sure the patient is able to hear sounds that are both very high and very low.
• Speech audiometry, another test in hearing screening, involves the doctor or practitioner determining at what level a patient can hear simple words. Some tests may include a balance test and a bone conduction test. These tests are typically given if some hearing problems are suspected. The hearing test will also include a discussion of the patient's results.

• If hearing loss is detected, a patient will be a good candidate for hearing aids. Hearing aids cost between $100 and $6,000. See How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost.

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• The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association maintains a list of state funding sources for hearing tests and other audiology services. The association also provides patient with a list of local and private funding sources.
• Many hearing clinics offer free screenings, either all the time or during specific times of the year. Check with local clinics or offices about any free screening events or programs.
• For a quick preliminary assessment, experts say online hearing tests work well. These tests, such as those offered by the University New South Wales and the Better Hearing Institute, can help patients determine if they need further assessment. These tests do not serve as a substitute for regular hearing checks with a professional.

• Patients can schedule a hearing test with most physicians' offices or with a specialty clinic. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends that patient only work with an ASHA-certified professional.

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