Private label hearing aids come from reputable manufacturers, but the instruments are relabeled and often possess a proprietary computer chip which only allows it to be accessed by that specific franchise.
They are typically sold by hearing instrument specialists (HIS) or dispensers, rather than audiologists, under labels such as Kirkland’s Brand, Miracle Ear, Beltone, Audibel, Audigy, Zounds and Liberty to name a few. Buying a private label hearing aid means the devices may only be purchased, programmed and repaired by the private offices that sell them. You unwittingly become tied to the franchise for the life of the hearing aid, because any adjustments must be performed by the proprietary software which is only released to the private franchise. Consequently, you are also unable to freely select the servicer of your hearing instruments when traveling, or relocating, or displeased with your care.
Standard hearing aids come in a variety of styles, makes, and models. They are usually issued by an audiologist, which is a clinical doctor with a strong foundation in the physics of sound and hearing, tinnitus, hearing aid programming, and inner ear balance disorders.
Our audiologists at Johnson Audiology are not beholden to any specific manufacturer, which allows you a greater variety of available options depending on your type and degree of hearing loss, lifestyle demands and budget.
It is important to understand that manufacturers rarely issue their latest technology to the re-branded proprietary label when it is available. Additionally, they seldom distribute the exact model to the private label franchises. Therefore, the proprietary hearing aids often come with lower or fewer technological features. Consequently, the proprietary labels available in the current hearing aid market make it difficult for you to do a direct comparison of available features and pricing even when you believe you are fully informed.
In order for you to receive the product and services that will serve your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget best, it is recommended that patients seek a licensed audiologist who is capable of working with several manufacturers. When seen at Johnson Audiology, you receive a thorough, professional assessment of your auditory function and needs, allowing for the best and most appropriate hearing instrument selection. The investment in services with an audiologist proves to be a better value with consideration to your success and satisfaction with your hearing aids.
Johnson Audiology wants to empower you to be proactive with your hearing health to make the most informed decision about who and where to seek audiological care. Regrettably, many hearing aid sales centers utilize misleading terminology and wording in advertisements and when you are in the store with the intention of selling to consumers. Read about some of the misleading wording that some proprietary hearing aid centers use.
At Johnson Audiology, our doctors of audiology are held to the highest ethical standards. We are committed to delivering personalized care and products to best meet your individual hearing and tinnitus needs.
