Compare 16 audiologists in Watts Hospital-Hillandale, Durham. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
A hearing evaluation lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The audiologist will ask about your hearing concerns, noise exposure history, and medical history. Testing takes place in a soundproof booth and includes pure-tone audiometry (beep test), speech recognition testing, and middle ear function testing (tympanometry). Results are shown on an audiogram. If hearing loss is found, the audiologist will explain the type and degree and discuss options. For hearing aids, a separate fitting appointment (60 minutes) involves selecting devices, taking ear impressions or scans, and programming the aids to your hearing profile.
See an audiologist if you have difficulty hearing conversations (especially in noisy environments), need people to repeat themselves frequently, turn up the TV louder than others prefer, experience ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus), have dizziness or balance problems, or were exposed to a loud noise that affected your hearing. Newborns who do not pass their hospital hearing screening are referred to an audiologist. Adults should have a baseline hearing test by age 50, or earlier if exposed to noise at work or through hobbies.
Hearing evaluation: $0-75 copay (diagnostic) · Hearing aids: $1,000-4,000 per ear · OTC hearing aids: $200-800/pair · Balance evaluation: $50-100 copay · Tinnitus evaluation: $50-100 copay
Diagnostic hearing evaluations ordered to investigate a medical complaint (hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness) are covered by most insurance plans and Medicare. Routine hearing screenings without a medical reason may not be covered. Hearing aid coverage varies widely: some plans include a benefit ($500 to $3,000 per ear every few years), while others exclude hearing aids entirely. Federal employee plans and many state Medicaid programs cover hearing aids. Over-the-counter hearing aids do not require a prescription and are not covered by insurance.