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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

About Us

Hears Hearing & Hearables is both an online store and small private audiology clinic located in Minnesota. Created by Kim Fishman, Hears Hearing & Hearables strives to help people locally and across the U.S. by offering accessibility and transparency. 

Our community-focused private audiology practice offers a multifaceted approach to hearing healthcare. This includes medical diagnosis and monitoring of hearing loss, rehabilitative components, dispensing hearing aids and assistive devices, social and aural therapy, auditory processing therapy, noise protection, and prevention of further hearing loss.

Fees for Service – Transparency

At our Hearing Clinic, we go above and beyond Best Practices to ensure that our clients are not just hearing but also happy. We understand the unique challenges people face with hearing loss and strive to provide personalized solutions that bring joy and youthful hearing. We offer many products and solutions that are individualized for you.

Located in the west metro of the Twin Cities, our clinic, owned by licensed audiologist Kim Fishman, helps individuals discover a sound they love and an affordable product. This not only brightens their world but also provides a more youthful hearing experience, fostering lasting friendships.

Our store operates on a membership basis, allowing us to secure competitive pricing for hearing healthcare and services. While membership is not mandatory for shopping, joining offers discounts and additional perks. Check out more information on membership and feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Yes, all the products available in our clinic are listed on our website. These products have been carefully selected for general use and safety for our patients. If you don’t find a specific product on our list, let us know, and we’ll share our thoughts on it, along with pricing.

Absolutely. All the products in our clinic, as well as on our website, are chosen with care to ensure they do not harm your hearing when used properly. We prioritize the well-being of our patients and their pocketbooks.

Explore our website, visit our coffeehouse-style clinic, or reach out to us with any questions. Hearing loss does matter, and we are here to meet your hearing needs today!

About Our Membership Program

  • Any customer of Hears Hearing & Hearables in the United States aged 18 and older may apply.
  • Follow this link to learn more about the program and become a member
  • A valid email address, name, birth date, and additional information may be required.

We offer two different membership options: 

  • General Membership
    • 25$ for one year of membership including perks and discounts
    • Membership does not auto renew. If you do not renew, any points accrued will be lost.
  • 5 Year Membership
    • 100$ for five years of membership including perks and discounts
    • Membership does not auto renew. If you do not renew, any points accrued will be lost.
  • Program members can earn points for purchases of qualifying products and services.
  • Receive discounted pricing, exclusive deals, and promotions.
  • Enjoy free standard USPS shipping based on membership type.
  • Contribute to the online forum on Facebook.
  • Get a 5% discount on Network Provider’s services (unless offered a different promotion).
  • Sell gently used equipment through the Hears Hearing & Hearables Consignment Store with team approval.

About Our Consignment Store

All our consignment products are professionally checked and tested. We run them in a test box for analysis and share that information with you.

We clean and sterilize all products using a UV-C sterilization oven. Hearing aids are programmed to a mild-moderate hearing loss, and the receivers are also sterilized to ensure they are in working order.

Our Consignment Store

Yes, the tips or domes at the end of the receivers or tubing are new. Additionally, we provide a small free assortment of tips/domes with the hearing aid receiver or tubing.

Consignment products are mostly non-refundable. However, we are willing to work with you and worst comes to worst we can turn around and help you sell your hearing aids.

Used products not only help the environment by recycling working items but also offer an affordable option for those who want quality without the high cost. Our consignment store combines accessibility and affordability.

To sell consignment items, you must first reach out to us at [email protected] with your product brand and serial number information. We will then check that information and decide whether or not the product is suitable to be sold in our consignment store. From there you must become a member and pay the consignment fee. The percentage we collect from the final sales price depends on the product’s value, ranging from $150 for items under $500 to 30% for products over $500, and 25% for products over $3000.

We Can Help You Sell Your Used Hearing Aids and Hearing Products in our Consignment Store

Becoming a member helps support our mission to offer competitive and transparent pricing on hearing aids and hearing products. Members are rewarded with special perks – like selling on our consignment store!

Yes, at any time, you can request your product back if it has not yet sold. You will be responsible for the cost of shipping your product back to you and the $100 consignment fee is non-refundable for unsold products.

If you have questions about a product in our consignment store, we prefer you to reach out via email to [email protected] or via the contact form. We are here to help and will respond promptly to your inquiries.

We recommend taking the used hearing aid to a licensed hearing professional for adjustments. If you are in Minnesota, we are happy to assist, and we can also help you find a licensed professional near your location.

Yes we charge for services sold separately and the hearing health care provider near you will also charge for their time.

About Our Hearing Aid Repair Service

Please visit our website and follow the instructions on our Repair Services page. You can fill out the repair request form, print the confirmation, and send it along with your hearing aid to our address.

Hearing Aid Repair Service – Online Mail In Repairs

Upon receiving your hearing aid, we conduct a meticulous inspection, checking for visible issues and cleaning the device to remove wax, debris, and moisture. We also verify the serial number to determine if the device is under manufacturer warranty.

We value your input. When filling out the repair request form, provide detailed information about the problems you’re facing with your hearing aid. This helps us tailor our approach to address your specific concerns.

Objective Testing involves using a test box to assess the performance of hearing aids still producing sound. This step allows us to identify issues not immediately apparent, ensuring a comprehensive diagnosis. The test box helps evaluate amplification, distortion, battery drain, attack and release times, microphone health, and overall output.

Technical Hearing Aid Check – Electroacoustic Analysis

While our in-house lab can handle many repairs, for more complex issues, we collaborate with a specialized lab in Hopkins, MN. This partnership allows us to address a broader range of problems, ensuring your hearing aids receive the best possible care.

Yes, common issues such as wax blockage, microphone debris, and moisture damage are addressed during the repair process. If a new part is needed, we cover costs for components under $50. For more expensive parts, additional costs may be included in the overall repair expenses.

We maintain transparent communication throughout the repair process. If your device needs to be sent to the manufacturer, we’ll notify you of potential extra costs. The decision to proceed with additional expenses rests with you, and if you choose otherwise, we’ll return the hearing aid without repair and refund you minus $40 for the time invested.

In some instances, high repair costs may lead to exploring alternatives. We offer consignment hearing aids in working condition as a cost-effective solution. Repair warranties vary based on associated costs.

Hearing Aid FAQs – Hears Hearing & Hearables

If you’re struggling to hear conversations, turning up the TV, asking others to repeat themselves, or feeling fatigued after listening, hearing aids may help. At Hears Hearing & Hearables, we encourage a professional hearing evaluation to determine whether hearing aids are right for you and which options will be most beneficial.

Hearing aids do not cure hearing loss, but they are designed to significantly improve clarity, understanding, and comfort in daily listening situations. Modern hearing aids help your brain better process sound, making communication easier and more natural.  Hearing aids help you hear.  We are hopeful it will improve the clarity, too.

Most hearing aids last 3–7 years, depending on usage, care, and technology needs. Regular maintenance and professional adjustments can help extend their lifespan.  Most hearing aids come with a three-year warranty.

Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans offer partial benefits, while others do not. Medicare generally does not cover hearing aids, but some Medicare Advantage plans offer a discount program. Our team at Hears Hearing & Hearables is happy to help you understand your options.

Hearing aids do not stop hearing loss from progressing, but they can help prevent listening fatigue, social withdrawal, and cognitive strain by keeping your brain engaged with sound. Some research studies show that stimulating the brain can improve your understanding over time.  This is a complicated question with a lot of research.  We will offer a blog on this soon. 

When hearing aids are properly fitted and cleaned regularly, they are safe and comfortable. Poor fit or improper hygiene can cause irritation, which is why professional guidance and routine care are important. If you have any discomfort or pain, please reach out to a provider. 

The right hearing aid depends on your hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity, cosmetic preferences, and budget. We offer a wide range of styles and technology levels to ensure a personalized fit for every patient. We also offer consignment hearing aids that will save you money and help support the planet by recycling

If hearing loss is present in both ears, two hearing aids are usually recommended. Wearing two hearing aids improves sound localization, speech understanding in noise, and overall listening comfort. It also helps stimulate your brain for longevity in clarity and comfort.

Daily cleaning, safe storage, keeping them dry, and regular professional checkups are key. We provide care instructions and ongoing support to help protect your investment. Go to our blog section if you need more information.  We have a wealth of information on cleaning and the prevention of hearing aid issues.

Most people experience an adjustment period of a few weeks as their brain relearns how to process sound. Follow-up care and fine-tuning help ensure a smooth transition.  You also have to get used to having something in your ear.  Be patient with yourself.

Costs vary based on technology level, features, and services included. At Hears Hearing & Hearables, we believe in transparent pricing and offering options to fit a variety of budgets. Our consignment options are very affordable, ranging from $ 500 a pair to $3,000 a pair. 

Yes. All hearing aids have a state trial period between 30 and 60 days.  This is so you can feel confident in your decision. Specific trial and return policies vary by state.

Hearing aids can be reprogrammed as your hearing needs change. Many devices include manufacturer warranties, and our team provides ongoing support for repairs and adjustments.

Modern hearing aids are designed to minimize feedback and unwanted noise. Proper fitting and professional programming greatly reduce these issues. If you or a loved one hears whistling, you may want to see a provider so they can find a remedy to stop the leaking of sound. 

Most users report improved communication, greater confidence, and less listening fatigue. Today’s hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and seamlessly integrate into everyday life.

There is no single “best” brand! The best hearing aid is the one properly fit and programmed for your hearing needs. That sounds natural to you, that meets your budget, lifestyle, and so much more. At Hears Hearing & Hearables, we work with trusted manufacturers and help you choose the right solution for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Hearing Aids

 

Prescription hearing aids are medical devices that are customized specifically for your hearing loss. They are programmed by a licensed hearing care professional based on a comprehensive hearing evaluation to match your unique hearing needs.

Prescription hearing aids are professionally fitted and adjusted to your exact hearing loss, while OTC hearing aids are designed for mild hearing loss and are self-fitted. Prescription devices offer greater precision, more advanced features, and ongoing professional support.

Prescription hearing aids are recommended for people with moderate to profound hearing loss, complex hearing needs, or anyone who wants personalized care, optimal performance, and long-term support.

Yes. A hearing test is required to determine the type and degree of hearing loss. This ensures your hearing aids are safely and accurately programmed for the best possible results. This does not include a “hearing test” that you did online. 

Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans offer partial or full benefits, while others do not. Medicare does not cover hearing aids. Our provider’s team can help check your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before you decide.

Prescription hearing aids include professional services such as hearing testing, custom programming, fittings, follow-up care, and adjustments. The cost also reflects advanced technology, more features, and long-term support.

Most prescription hearing aids last between 5 to 7 years, depending on usage, care, and technology changes. Regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan.

Hearing aids do not cure hearing loss, but they significantly improve your ability to hear speech, sounds, and conversations. Most patients notice better communication, reduced listening effort, and improved quality of life.

There is an adjustment period, which is completely normal. Your brain needs time to adapt to hearing sounds again. Follow-up visits allow us to fine-tune your hearing aids for comfort and clarity.

Most patients have a few follow-up visits during the first few months to get acclimated and understand how to do cleaning and troubleshooting. After that, annual hearing checks, adjustments, and cleanings are recommended to keep your hearing aids performing well. Updated hearing tests are recommended if you feel your hearing isn’t as good.

Yes. Many prescription hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream phone calls, music, and TV audio directly to your hearing aids.

Prescription hearing aids can be reprogrammed as your hearing changes. Regular hearing evaluations and tests help ensure your devices continue to meet your needs.

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