Is The Hearing Company Legit? Evaluating Their Reputation

Evaluating The Hearing Company’s Legitimacy and Reputation

The Hearing Company is a major retailer of hearing aids and related products in the United States. With hundreds of hearing care centers across the country, The Hearing Company advertises itself as a trusted source for those with hearing impairment. However, with the rise of online companies claiming to offer more affordable hearing aids, many consumers wonder, “Is The Hearing Company legit?”

When evaluating a hearing aid provider, key factors to consider include product selection, pricing, audiology expertise, customer service, and overall reputation. Here is an in-depth look at The Hearing Company’s background, services, and legitimacy as a hearing healthcare provider.

Overview of The Hearing Company’s History and Experience

The Hearing Company was founded in 1959 by Donald Gilmore in Memphis, TN initially as a manufacturer of hearing aids. The company expanded into a retail chain of hearing aid centers by acquiring Beltone stores in the 1980s. Today, The Hearing Company has grown into one of the largest hearing aid networks in the country.

With over 60 years in business and hundreds of clinic locations staffed by licensed audiologists and hearing instrument specialists, The Hearing Company has established itself as an experienced provider of hearing aids and audiology services. Its longevity and national presence add legitimacy.

Hearing Aids and Technology Offered

The Hearing Company centers carry a wide selection of digital hearing aid models and styles from leading brands like Beltone, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Starkey, and Widex. Options include:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE)
• In-the-ear (ITE)
• Invisible-in-canal (IIC)
• Completely-in-canal (CIC)
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC)

This extensive inventory from top hearing aid manufacturers demonstrates The Hearing Company’s connections and capability to fit many types of hearing loss. They also offer tinnitus relief options, Bluetooth streaming accessories, and protective hearing aid care products.

Custom Hearing Evaluations

Before recommending any hearing aids, The Hearing Company performs comprehensive hearing tests and needs assessments. Their audiologists examine your hearing capabilities across various sound frequencies and volumes to determine the severity and type of impairment.

They evaluate your lifestyle, listening environments, and aesthetic preferences as well. This custom testing helps The Hearing Company match you with optimal hearing aid models and programming.

In-House Hearing Aid Fitting and Programming

Rather than shipping hearing aids with generic programming, The Hearing Company handles all fittings and tuning in-house at their hearing centers. Their audiologists fine-tune the devices to your exact degree of hearing loss and needs.

This personalized adjustment provides better sound quality and amplification than pre-programmed hearing aids from online sellers. The in-person fitting process also allows The Hearing Company to ensure proper size, comfort, and functionality.

Hearing Aid Prices and Financing

Compared to big box retailers, The Hearing Company’s hearing aid prices are generally higher, ranging from around $1,400 up to $3,700 per device depending on the make, model, and features. However, they frequently offer discounts and financing options to improve affordability.

Available financing plans break down costs into more manageable monthly payments with 0% interest. Various third party financing partners as well as The Hearing Company’s own credit program help cover costs not paid by insurance.

Follow-Up Services and Support

Throughout the hearing aid ownership process, The Hearing Company provides ongoing audiology support and device maintenance. Follow-up visits for adjustment and programming tweaks are included for the first year. Their hearing centers also handle hearing aid cleanings, repairs, and replacements as needed.

This comprehensive support delivered by qualified audiology staff sets The Hearing Company apart from online DTC hearing aid companies. Relying on a local provider for fitting, programming, and troubleshooting needs proves more convenient for many.

Industry Recognition and Reputation

As one of the sector’s largest and longest-running hearing care providers, The Hearing Company enjoys positive name recognition. They maintain an A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, indicating a trustworthy company. The Hearing Company also gives back through the philanthropic Beltone Foundation.

Online reviews from customers largely report satisfactory experiences and improved hearing from The Hearing Company’s hearing aids and services. Their extensive expertise and professional staff help earn predominantly favorable feedback.

Downsides and Considerations

While The Hearing Company is a legitimate hearing healthcare provider, their services may not make sense for all consumers. Those on very tight budgets may achieve more affordable pricing through discount retailers or online DTC companies.

Others may prefer working with independent audiology clinics or buying from hearing aid manufacturers directly. Unlike The Hearing Company, these options provide access to a wider range of brands and technology.

The Bottom Line: The Hearing Company is a Legitimate Option for Hearing Aids

With licensed professionals, custom programming, name brand hearing aids, and decades of experience, The Hearing Company is certainly a valid, trustworthy provider of hearing healthcare. Their extensive testing, fitting services, and ongoing support add value compared to basic online sellers.

However, their higher pricing puts them out of reach for some budgets. Conducting research, getting quotes from multiple providers, and leveraging financing can help consumers find the most affordable legitimate hearing aids for their needs and budget.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.