Question 1

What types of hearing aids do you offer? Can I be fitted with a hearing aid that no one can see?

Accepted Answer

We are able to prescribe and fit all different styles and technology levels of hearing aid.  These range from very small, almost invisible, custom fitted devices, to larger "behind-the-ear" models, and everything in between.  Apart from the physical style, hearing aids are also available in a range of different levels of technology, providing potentially higher degrees of benefit and satisfaction to the patient as the level of technology increases.  Candidacy for different types and styles of hearing aid will differ between patients, and will depend on many factors, including severity of hearing loss, the patient's lifestyle, and their personal preferences.  These factors will be considered and discussed as part of your Initial Consultation & Assessment appointment.

Check out our blog article for more information on this topic, by clicking the below link:

Question 2

There are so many different manufacturers of hearing aids; which one is the best?

Accepted Answer

The major hearing aid manufacturers all make excellent, high quality hearing aids, and are all at the forefront of research and development in improving their technology.  The main discrepancy is in how different manufacturers' hearing aids will process sound, with some patients preferring the sound quality of one manufacturer over the other.  These preferences can be highly individual, and are usually more relevant when someone has already been wearing hearing aids with a specific manufacturer for a long time.  We will typically make a recommendation for a hearing aid manufacturer, style, and technology level as part of your Initial Consultation & Assessment appointment, which will take into account the results of your hearing exam, along with your lifestyle and personal preferences.

Check out our blog article for more information on this topic by clicking the below link:

Question 3

Why do hearing aids vary so widely in price?

Accepted Answer

There are many factors that affect the price of a specific hearing aid, such as the manufacturer and overall cosmetic appearance of the hearing aid.  The most significant factor that affects the price, however, is how technologically advanced the hearing aid is.  This will usually correlate with how much benefit may be experienced when using the hearing aid in various different challenging listening situations, such as in restaurants, meetings, or outdoors.  As part of your Initial Consultation & Assessment, your lifestyle and day to day needs will be considered, alongside your budget, to make the best recommendation for you.

We discuss hearing aid pricing more in one of our blog articles, which can be found here:

Question 4

How long does a set of hearing aids typically last?

Accepted Answer

This can vary and will depend on factors such as how well and regularly the hearing aids are serviced and maintained, the environments the hearing aids are typically used in (such as dirty or moist environments), and the physical properties of the patient's ear canals.  Many hearing aids will last for at least five years before it may be worth replacing them for a newer pair.  Hearing aid technology is also constantly evolving and improving, and many patients choose to upgrade to newer hearing aids earlier than this.

Question 5

Can I wear just one hearing aid instead of two?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, if you have a hearing loss in both ears (which is the case for most patients), it is strongly recommended to wear two hearing aids.  We use both ears for optimal hearing and communication, and to use a hearing aid on only one ear will significantly reduce the benefit you could be getting from hearing aids.

Question 6

Do I have to wear my hearing aids all the time?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended to wear your hearing aids as much as possible.  Ideally, we would advise that a patient put their hearing aids on first thing in the morning, and only take them out right before going to bed.  There are a few situations where you would want to remove your hearing aids, such as when bathing, but otherwise you will get the most benefit from hearing aids with consistent, daily use.

Check out our blog article for more information on this topic by clicking the below link:

Question 7

Will hearing aids restore my hearing to a “normal” level?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, no.  This is because hearing is a very complex sense that not only relies on how loud things are, but also on the integrity of the inner ear and its neural connections to associated parts of the brain.  The ability to understand speech can be compromised even when the speech is loud enough to “hear”.  Furthermore, as we age, our ability to process information naturally slows down, and this can also greatly affect how quickly and easily we can participate in a conversation.  Hearing aids, however, do a great job at reducing the effort we have to put into hearing and listening.   The technology within hearing aids is excellent and engineered to work with the brain’s processing of sound.  While they won’t be able to eliminate all hearing challenges, they will certainly make your life easier and more enriching and allow you to participate in daily conversations with far less strain than before.

Question 8

How often will I need to come back for an appointment after I have been fitted with hearing aids?

Accepted Answer

We typically recommend that you return for an appointment once every six months for us to check-in with you, service your hearing aids, and make sure all is going smoothly.  We also recommend having your hearing rechecked on an annual basis.

To learn more about this topic, check out our blog article by clicking on the below button.

Question 9

Do you offer a trial period or have a returns policy for hearing aids?

Accepted Answer

Full payment for your hearing aids will be due on the day of your hearing aid fitting appointment.  However, if you find that the hearing aids are not suited to you, you can return your hearing aids within 60 days of fitting, for a full refund less our consultation fees.   These fees will be clearly stated and itemised on your quotation.

Question 10

What are the advantages of private hearing care over NHS treatment?

Accepted Answer

The NHS offers an excellent, comprehensive audiology service free at the point of access.  However due to the significant pressures and demands that NHS audiology departments face, there can be many benefits to paying for private hearing healthcare.  As a private, independent clinic, we can provide ample time for your appointments to give you as much support as you require, without lengthy waiting lists.  Most NHS departments can only offer a choice of a couple of different hearing aid styles or options, with a much more limited technology range.  At Finchley Hearing, you will have access to a full range of hearing aid technologies and styles, so that we can work with you to make the best and most appropriate recommendation for your needs.  If you have any concerns following your hearing aid fitting, we will ensure that this is quickly and efficiently addressed.

Check out our blog article for more information on this topic, by clicking the below link:

Question 11

What are the advantages of using an independent hearing care provider over a high street based chain?

Accepted Answer

As an independently owned and managed clinic, Finchley Hearing is able to fit any brand of hearing aid that we deem to be most beneficial for our patients.  We have the freedom to care for our patients in a way that will be as individualised as possible, without facing external corporate pressures that are not always in a patient's best interests.

To learn more about this topic, check out our blog article by clicking on the below button.

Question 12

Do you accept private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

We do not currently accept private health insurance; however, private insurance would not cover the cost of hearing aids.

Question 13

Can I pay by credit card?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept all major credit/debit cards.

Question 14

Do you see children in your practice?

Accepted Answer

We do not currently offer paediatric services and ask that all patients be at least 18 years of age.