Banner image

Hearing aids

When it comes to buying hearing aids, you have many choices. Let us help you sort out your options.

Hearing loss that is not treated can affect communication with family and friends, as well as at work. Over time, this can lead to isolation and depression. Research shows that about 17 percent of adults in the U.S. have problems with hearing loss.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself if you think you might need hearing aids:

  • Do you ask people to repeat themselves often?
  • Do you lean forward to hear better in more difficult listening environments?
  • Do others complain that you have the television or radio up too loud?

If you think you need hearing aids, make an appointment to see your primary care provider. He or she may want you to see an audiologist (hearing specialist) to have a hearing test.

Learn more

What to expect from your visit

After you have had an appointment with your audiologist and have determined you need hearing aids, he or she will schedule a time for you to have a hearing aid fitting.

During your fitting appointment, your audiologist will:

  • create the settings in the hearing aids that are best for your hearing loss
  • make sure the fit of the hearing aids is right
  • show you how to work the hearing aids
  • show you how to take care of the hearing aids
  • help you practice putting in and taking out the hearing aids

You will have a test called real ear measurement at your hearing aid fitting or one of your follow-up appointments. During this test, your audiologist will measure the sound in your ear to make sure the soft sounds can be heard and the loud sounds are not too loud.

You will have 45 days to try your new hearing aids. During this time, you will be able to make sure that you have the right style that fits your needs. Talk with your audiologist if you are unhappy with your hearing aids.

It is important that you keep all of your follow-up appointments. During your follow-up appointments, your audiologist will make sure you have best technology and style to fit your needs. He or she will also discuss with you whether additional options or features are needed, and clean and check your hearing aids to make sure they are working well.

At Allina Health

Our audiologists are licensed. They can help identify the underlying cause of a hearing loss. They work with ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors to test for hearing-related conditions that may need further evaluation or possible treatment.

Related links

Source: Shannon Garlitz, AuD, audiologist
Reviewed by: Shannon Garlitz, AuD, audiologist

First published: 11/27/2017
Last reviewed: 11/27/2017

Allina Health Everyday Clinic

This is a retail clinic location. We offer basic services for minor injuries and illnesses for patients 18 months and older. We do not see visits for workers' or injury compensation.

From the list below, please select the condition that best describes what you would like to be seen for. If you do not see what you are looking for, please visit an Urgent Care location or schedule a visit with your primary care provider.
I do not see my condition

Everyday On Wheels

Everyday On Wheels mobile clinic is not wheel chair accessible due to the size of the vehicle. Patients should be able to safely climb a short set of stairs to enter the mobile clinic.

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time and have your mobile phone available for the provider to contact you when they are ready to see you.

We've changed how we provide some services with your care and safety in mind. Expanded virtual care services are available to schedule online. You can also call your clinic for help finding the best option.

Have you been to an Allina Health clinic or hospital before?

If you're not sure, choose No.
;

What’s the reason for your visit?

Only these primary care appointments can be scheduled online. For all other appointments or with any questions, call 1-888-425-5462.

Health insurance coverage for physicals varies depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage, especially if you've scheduled less than a year from your last physical exam.
;

What’s the reason for your visit?

Only these primary care appointments can be scheduled online. For all other appointments or with any questions, call 1-888-425-5462.

Health insurance coverage for physicals varies depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage, especially if you've scheduled less than a year from your last physical exam.
;