You’re a fairly busy person, so it’s reasonable that you completely forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. It’s a good thing you received a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you to get ready. So… what should you do?
The effectiveness of your appointment will be increased with just a little bit of simple prep.
7 steps to get ready for your hearing exam
In order to be fully prepared, use these 7 steps:
Document your symptoms
For every person across various situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Take some time to write down when you detect your hearing challenges the most. Are there specific times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for example? When you’re in crowded locations like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? If you record these situations, it will help us get a better look into your specific hearing situation.
Discover hearing aid options
Determining the landscape of hearing aids can empower you to make informed decisions during your appointment. Research different types of hearing aids, their features, and how they align with your needs and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have an easier time talking about your options and tailoring our suggestions to your specific needs.
Review your medical history
Share the comprehensive overview of your medical history that you previously compiled. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you utilize. Personalizing our treatment suggestions by determining any factors that may be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic picture of your health.
Protect your ears
In the days prior to your hearing exam, take proactive measures to protect your hearing from loud noises. Exposure to too much noise can skew the results of your exam, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. You will get a better comprehension of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing test by protecting your ears ahead of time.
Look into your insurance
Find out if your insurance covers hearing services. Understanding the extent of your coverage beforehand can help you avoid unforeseen costs and navigate any insurance-related questions with confidence. You might need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend accompany you
You can come to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be really advantageous. Bringing somebody with you can offer extra support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. They can help remember important information discussed during the appointment and give insights into your hearing experiences that you may not have noticed yourself.
Anticipate results discussion
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing exam results are usually available immediately. Be prepared for an in-depth discussion when you get the results of your exam on the same day. We may encourage solutions including hearing protection strategies, lifestyle modifications, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
You will get maximum benefit from your appointment and you will come in with confidence if you adhere to these seven steps.
It’s time to schedule a hearing exam so give us a call!