General Hearing & Audiology Questions

How do I know if I need a hearing test?

Signs you may need a hearing test include difficulty understanding conversations, frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, or noticing ringing in your ears. Regular checkups are recommended, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of hearing loss.

What happens during a hearing test?

During your test, an audiologist evaluates your ability to hear different sounds, pitches, and volumes. The process is painless and typically includes a combination of pure-tone testing, speech recognition, and ear canal inspections.

How often should I have my hearing checked?

Adults should have a hearing test every 1–2 years, or sooner if you notice changes in your hearing.

Do you accept insurance for hearing tests?

Yes. We are in-network with Medicare, Blue Shield of California, and Affinity Medical HMO.

For Medicare patients, diagnostic hearing tests may be covered when medically necessary and accompanied by a physician referral. An office visit charge may apply based on your specific coverage.

For all other insurance plans, payment for hearing tests is required at the time of your visit. We are happy to provide a detailed receipt for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Please contact our office for further details regarding your specific benefits — our team is happy to assist you.

What if I feel like I have wax in my ears — do you clean it?

No, we do not perform earwax removal in our office. If you have a history of wax buildup, please have your ears cleaned by your primary care physician or an ENT specialist prior to your hearing test. They can bill your insurance for this service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lifestyle & Support

How can I improve communication with someone who has hearing loss?

Speak clearly and face the person.
Reduce background noise.
Use visual cues, like gestures or captions.
Encourage the use of hearing aids or assistive listening devices.

What should I do if I experience ringing in my ears (tinnitus)?

Tinnitus can result from hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, or other medical conditions. Schedule a hearing evaluation to identify the cause and discuss management options with your audiologist.

Hearing Aid Questions

How long does it take to get used to new hearing aids?

Most people adjust within 2–6 weeks, depending on the degree of hearing loss and hearing aid type. Your audiologist will guide you through an acclimatization process to ensure comfort and clarity.

How do I clean and maintain my hearing aids?

Wipe your devices daily with a soft, dry cloth.
Avoid water, hairspray, and other moisture.
Replace wax filters as instructed by your audiologist.
Rechargeable batteries need to be replaced as needed.
Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year.

My hearing aid isn’t working properly—what should I do?

First, check the battery or recharge your device. Ensure it’s clean and free of earwax. Change your wax guard filter. If the problem persists, contact your audiologist to troubleshoot or schedule a repair.

Can I swim or shower with my hearing aids?

Most hearing aids are not waterproof. Remove them before swimming, bathing, or showering.

How long do hearing aids last?

With proper care, hearing aids typically last up to 7 years. Regular maintenance and proper storage can extend their lifespan.

Are hearing aids covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance policies cover part or all of the cost, while others may not. Contact your provider or our office to explore options.

Can I use my hearing aids with my phone or TV?

Yes, today’s hearing aids can pair with smartphones, tablets, and TVs via Bluetooth.

My hearing aid is whistling or giving feedback—what does this mean?

Feedback usually occurs if the device isn’t seated properly, if there’s wax buildup, or if the volume is too high. Try adjusting the fit and cleaning the device, and consult your audiologist if it continues.