You’re a rather busy individual, so it’s understandable that you completely forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. Fortunately, you just received that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to get ready. So… what should you do?
While it may not require an all-night study session like in your scholastic days, a bit of preparation can make a substantial difference in maximizing the value of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing test
In order to be totally prepared, follow these 7 steps:
Record your symptoms
For every individual across various situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Whenever you observe that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing troubles, write it down. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations hard to follow in crowded places like restaurants? If you record these instances, it will help us get a deeper look into your particular hearing situation.
Hearing aids can be really helpful
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Do some research about how the different models of hearing aids may work with your needs and lifestyle. Being knowledgeable about available options can expedite discussions with your specialist and ensure that any recommendations are personalized to your needs.
Review your medical history
Share the comprehensive outline of your medical history that you previously compiled. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, noteworthy illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. Individualizing our treatment recommendations by determining any factors that might be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic picture of your health.
Safeguard your ears
Use protective measures to shield your hearing from harm, particularly in the days leading up to your exam. Exposure to too much noise can skew the results of your exam, so avoid environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding your hearing leading up to the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and obtain a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Investigate your health insurance coverage with regard to hearing assessments and related services. Knowing the level of your coverage beforehand can help you avoid unexpected costs and navigate any insurance-related queries with confidence. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, think about reaching out to your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring a companion
You can go to your appointment by yourself 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 recall important information discussed during the appointment and offer insights into your hearing experiences that you might not have noticed yourself.
Be prepared for a conversation about results
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing test results are generally available immediately. Be prepared for an in-depth conversation when you receive the results of your test on the same day. We might recommend solutions including hearing protection tips, lifestyle modifications, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
By following these seven essential steps, you can approach your hearing exams with confidence and guarantee that you derive maximum benefit from your appointment.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing exam yet, give us a call today to get your appointment on the books.