Sadly hearing aid providers are lumped in with life insurance sales, used car lots and funeral service. They need to be upfront and justify their high costs with a complete price breakdown of services so consumers are aware what they are getting for their money in advance.
All of which to say is that perhaps the best model for patients is to separate the purchase of hearing aids from the "product" that is after-care. As it is currently, pricing is attached to the hearing aids that you buy, but the after-care is what drives most of the price differential from one store to the next. So it's probably better to have the competition that's driving the price structure. THAT would be much more transparent and beneficial for everyone. (except perhaps the audiologists).
I have two observations. First, I think that the price of any particular device should be the same regardless of where you're buying it. What should be variable is how much is charged for care because that is what varies from place to place. And, this should be know up front and itemized for the patient. The reason I believe this is because in my opinion hearing aides should be considered medically necessary devices for anyone diagnosed by an ENT with hearing loss. That leads me to my second observation. I believe that the real problem here is that the medical insurance industry needs to recognize hearing aides as medical devices when properly prescribed by an ENT. This is especially appropriate given the research linking hearing loss and tinnitus to onset of dementia.
Dr. Cliff has always said there are some great hearing providers but also some weak ones in the Costco network. The trick is finding out which is true of Costcos in your vicinity. Yours is evidently one of the good ones.
@@wan2852 Dr.Cliff has said that some people, who can afford him, fly across the country to be served by him; so why wouldn't a person of lesser means be willing to drive 30 miles away if their needs can be met at a Costco Hearing Center instead of their local higher-priced local private clinic? Many people drive 30 or more miles away just to attend a sporting event or a concert!
Good explanation of the providers' share of HA prices. I'd like to see/hear a breakdown of the manufacturer's side: an overview of the percentages for technology/R&D, cost of production, and marketing vs profit margins. I realize all of these vary, and actual numbers may be unavailable, but even a best guess might give users an idea of why these devices are as expensive as they are.
I understand that there are 2 components, the actual cost of the hearing aids and the costs of aftercare. If these costs are separated, consumers would be better able to make judgements. As for hardware, the hearing aid manufacturers who deal only with audiologists are not being transparent to the end customer- the wearer. Both need to be compensated fairly but neither disclose their prices. They only give you a cost of the package. This is a form of price fixing.
In my country, I was on summer vacation at the sea, I went with a friend to a cafe where some band performances are held. I ordered a beer, and so did she. we drank and then we get a bill in which the value is 20 times higher than the price of that beer compared to the price in the store. When I saw the price, I was shocked, my blood pressure rose at that time. I paid for it, but since then I am careful when entering cafes and bars on the waterfront where such performances are held. In these places, it is customary to pay for the performance of various bands along with the drink. I have nothing against it, but what bothers me the most is that it is often a change and then comes a shock. That's why I try to see the price first, then I go sit down and ask for a drink. What I would like when I enter is for the prices of the products to be clearly displayed so that I, as a customer, can be informed in advance before I ask for their services. I think you need to do something similar. To put a text next to your the table in your audiology practice that in addition to the price of the hearing aids, the price of the service you provide is also charged
I have been to 2 hearings aid locations. Both of them asked for my insurance card before telling me how much the hearing aids cost. I was told I had great insurance and the hearing aids would cost over $10,000. I now will ask for price before they get my insurance cards.Turns out my price was adjusted to the large amount of the cost.( Both of these quotes were from Southern California.)Both places gave 1 service call for 3 yrs and both places encouraged me to come back for new hearing aids after 3 yrs.I've had trouble with both hearing aids brands after 1 to 2 yrs. Both companies just keep returning them without fixing them.Guess I'll just keep looking for another location.
This never will happened until hearing aid businesses, especially those working from high overhead office chains drop their business-for-profit businesses and focus on providing medical help for their patients. Since it’s highly immoral to sell medical devices using their patient helplessness to make more money. Hearing aids industry should be further deregulated and humanized, eliminate the market monopoly of very few that dictate the higher HA prices…
Thank you Dr Cliff. I have been going to an Audiologist fo 6 years. Never understood the price of hearing aids or why I never had to pay for repeat check ups. All makes sense now. Thanks so much. ❤
I blame your industry for not deciding (standardizing?) on whether or not the hearing aid pricing includes a high level of care. I finally got around that in my industry by pricing our widgets at the relatively same low price as everyone else and pricing the service that everyone needed and wanted at a fair price. Now we don't have to tap dance our pricing. Let me take a stab at it. Hearing Aids: $2000, $3000, or $4000. Fitting, Programming and Best Practices Care: $3000-$5000.
@@wan2852 Exactly. I don't care what is inside a hearing aid. At this point I don't think they should cost any more than $500 a pair. You can get the best Bluetooth Earbuds that have hearing aid features for under $300.
The gouging practiced by some hearing aid sellers here in Malaysia prevented me from committing to buying for 3 years!?! One of the places I went to was obviously a scam artist and he got a well deserved 1 star google review with a full on in depth review of what a scam master the owner was. Finally I bought from the one place I felt actually cared for me as a person. They didn’t push the expensive units but took time to go through all of my options, understood covid had destroyed my business, and didn’t judge my income by my skin color. Well done.
Here in Australia I have been quoted up to $10,000 ($6,500 US). The hearing aids I am currently trialling are the Evolv AI 1600 that I have seen advertised online for around $2,800. But from day one I could never undesrtand the absolute over the top cost of these things, bordering on insane!!! BTW not happy with the Evolv, after only 2 days the left side have failed - being returned today.
Dr. Cliff, I am unlucky and also lucky that my hearing problems were caused by my USMC service and now my hearing aids come from the V.A. Where I'm going with this is that that would not have happened without the help of a really good V.A. Rep. I am hoping some vets may see this and realize there is help for them but they may have to look for it. Semper Fi.
It is still difficult to get the word out to veterans that they are entitled to hearing aids as a benefit of their military service and that their hearing loss does NOT have to have been service-related, an erroneous notion which deters many from applying.
Seiko used to sell their watches only through "approved jewelers." The profit margin was good. Then Seiko got greedy and began selling their watches in discount stores causing jewelers to match their prices. Hearing aid providers will be forced to do likewise (and probably are...).
I literally had to let go of my law enforcement profession because I couldn’t afford to get new hearing aids with appropriate Bluetooth technology. The government will provide hearing aids for certain people but not those serving and protecting their community. Sad times.
Did you look into your states department vocational rehabilitation services? States provide a program in which you can receive hearing aids from providers if you are a working adult. There is an income qualifying number, but you should look into it.
Dr. Cliff, I continue to follow and watch your videos because I learn from many of them and I always like to learn from and consider many points of view on topics of interest, but it occurs to me that the argument you make on this subject of pricing is self-imposed by the existing practice of your profession. When my medical doctor diagnoses my problems and prescribes and supervises my care, he charges for his services only. He doesn't roll into his charges the cost of my prescriptions, casts, appliances and possible physical therapy. So why don't the members of your profession accept the fact that they are perpetuating this problem by rolling the cost of the hearing aids into the services to be provided? Why not break the cost out and stop hiding which is for services and which is for a physical product which can be shopped for?
I live in Ukraine and i've bought pair of the Starkey Evolv AI 2400 RIC 312 for slightly more than $2k(for pair), consultations are free, regular hearing tests after purchase are free. I have no idea where the business is hidden there, but its great to get pair of high-end HA for that price.
So, why is care and hearing aids bundled in one price? It appears that the price is for the hearing aids alone, when it is not. Initial evaluation ... pick your budget level ... hearing aid technology level 1 hearing aid technology level 2 follow up appointment 1 ... Very little else is sold this way unless its emphasized (Your new car comes with 3 years of service for $)
Appreciate your explanation of cost structure. When the high level of support and service is offered to explain the high cost, will that support and service be put into writing.
First Costco i called for an appointment had Feb 7th 2024 for first opening. Second Costco i called had Jan 14th 2024, available. I've been wearing HA's for 21 years... i fully intend to give Costco the benefit of the doubt in services and products. Looking Forward to trying their Phillips ha's.
Why are hearing aids considered elective by insurance companies? Also, how do people with a fixed income go about getting the quality you speak of when it is so far out of what they can afford? Thank you.
Phonak L90s, $2500. Am getting unbundled followup care locally. I could own these for five years and not even come close to $4500 worth of audiology followup appointments.
I don't even know if my provider is an audiologist or a tech. I know when she was selling them to me she was nothing but attention. After she got me, she was way more casual about the whole thing. Now I have a better understanding of the whole process and could take better advantage of the service I paid for. I would be less tolerant of some of her behavior, as well. But you don't know these things at first and you have no idea if you are paying too much for what you are going to get.
SO how about a video guiding us as to how to determine an appropriate price for hearing aid services. You have made it clear it depends, but at the end of the day we still need to determine "is that a fair price?"
You know Dr Cliff the problem is lack of transparency in hearing aid costs.while purchasing hearing aid patient should know what is hardware cost and what is cost of services of audiologist.I have no problem audiologist charging for their services and yes it differ from place to place but clean breakdown that is what needed.That is a reason why people cheer for Costco .
My audiologist hearing aid package deal includes free supplies, adjustments, and visits for as long as I own them. The first real ear measurement was included in the package. I've never felt the need for an additional real ear measurement. The annual hearing test is covered by my medical insurance.
@@wan2852 for the past 5 years, it's always been the audiologist...I've never seen a tech, occasionally she'll have a summer intern sit in during the appointment.
Hi Doctor Cliff my Audiologist told me sorry I cannot fit you with a Phonak Cros hearing Aid as you have a collapsed ear canal on that ear , and it will keep falling out , I was very disappointed , I'm sure he is right , but just wondered if the ingenious people at Phonak had any solutions to a problem like this
Around here you begin with an audiologist but then are turned over to a di$pen$er. 'Tis the luck of the draw if you find (and keep) a good one. Not good odd$.
I want to bring this hearing aid to Bangladesh. Is this product genuine? How to understand the original or fake? Is it ok to order from ebay??? This product should be bought for 6912$ if taken from my country Bangladesh. Where Ebay is giving at 3200$.
The expertise of the Audiologist is also important. One who finished uni recently vs an Audiologist with 25 years experience. I know who I'd rather see. Also some come to an expert, do a test. Get a superb recommendation for the exact best product for their hearing, lifestyle and abilities. Then go to a cheap clinic with that information. That initial advice alone is worth lots yet they only pay for a hearing test etc.
Isn't that really a reasonable argument in support of unbundling? If the expert had required payment for his services separate and apart from the charge for the hearing aids he would have been entitled to payment; and then would have been in a position to also offer the sale of the hearing aids at the same lower price as the "cheap clinic" so it would be a win-win situation for both the client and the audiologist then, wouldn't it?
In my uneducated opinion, the hearing aid business is just like the prescription medicine business. I would imagine that the computing power and components of a hearing aid is just a tiny portion of what research and technology goes into a hearing aid compared to what goes into a cell phone. I have needed hearing aids for decades, and I have never been able to afford them. I have lived in Ecuador for over a decade because it is much more affordable than the States, and there are no programs to help those who can't afford the highly inflated costs of hearing aids. I believe they are somewhat less expensive here than in the States, but maybe one or two thousand dollars less. Sadly the new over the counter hearing aids won't work for me due to my high level of hearing loss. I keep waiting for a company to come out with high quality, low cost hearing aids, but the large manufacturers will never let that happen. So I just to continue to say "what did you say', and that is frustrating to both of us. But unfortunately I doubt anything will change any time soon in regard to pricing, because it is like most big businesses which is simply the bottom line. They want to make their investors more money, and to get that situation to budge is never going to happen. So Sad. As long as they can get away with it, they will continue to over inflate the prices 10 fold to what the actual cost to produce their products is. Prescription meds in Ecuador cost about 10% on average to what the identical medicines cost in the States. Not generic, same manufacturer, same product. But the government here has not been able to do that with hearing aids. Maybe someday.
I think the biggest mistake most people considering treatment make is they tend to put far to much focus on the devices themselves. If you change the perspective from shopping for hearing aids to instead shopping for a provider you will be significantly more likely to find success and satisfaction.
@@davidtabizel7727 I don’t think anybody is getting away with $1000 per hour on service alone. I can’t speak for all clinics in all states but I have done the math for myself. Per hour I spend with a patient I have to generate at least $167 per hour to cover the expense of doing business where I am at. Within the first 4 years of a hearing aid fitting I spend on average of 10-12 hours with a patient. There is rent cost, device cost, warranties, equipment, calibration, support staff, marketing, etc. It can add up very quick.
ALL audiologist clinics need to have a busy restaurants next door. After you get your hearing aids go to the business and then you will get part of a real world test of your hearing aids.
Great idea! Maybe the audiologist could go to lunch with the newly-fitted client, make suggestions as the client vocalizes his reactions in situ, and might offer to pick up the check! LOL 🤣
Cliff, the industry you participate in (medical/health insurance industrial complex) is not very transparent. Combining product and service into one price is part of what causes mistrust among consumers. It would be interesting to understand what hearing aids/service cost in other countries to understand the real acceptable market price. I just purchased my first set of hearing aids from Costco (Jabra Enhance Pro 20) and while I am not so satisfied with the product due to streaming/bluetooth shortfalls, I have been very impressed with the care and expertise of the person who has served me. I have had two sessions at Costco which have a combined total of 60-75 minutes. What is that amount of time worth for a person who is trained to fit hearing aides? And yes, I understand some folks have special circumstances that require advanced treatment and in our 'for profit' medical system they should be expected to pay more for that treatment.
They are highly rated, the battery life is really incredible, they are very small and non-intrusive and when it comes to listening and interacting with people, they seem quite good. What I am really disappointed in is - I can not stream from my laptop, or TV (need expensive streamer for multiple TV's) Streaming podcasts while driving to work and streaming radio while driving is not ready for prime-time. Sound cuts in and out, one ear then the other cutting out, versus hearing people, sound quality is poor, only higher notes, very little to no bass. I have a work phone and a personal phone, it is really a hassle switching back and forth between phones to take calls, etc. I thought noise cancellation would be much better than it is. I thought Auracast would benefit managing multiple devices but it doesnt seem that way. I am working and on the move so my criticisms are important to me. You may have a different lifestyle or set of needs. The good thing about purchasing from Costco is they offer a six month satisfaction guarantee so you have time to decide whether or not they meet your needs. I am hoping Jabra will fix the bluetooth/streaming issues quickly so I don't have to return these and start over. I've never had these types of problems with inexpensive ear buds...@@marianawoehlke9157
@marianawoehlke9157 I have the Phonak Marvel twin - the Costco KS9s - and I am sticking with them until Costco or the OTC market begins selling a newer model that treats my present loss, some severe and profound loss at higher frequencies, as excellently as the KS9s do. Maybe by next year sometime. In the meantime I am enjoying the ones I have and Costco's great continuing aftercare, along with their flawless Android connectivity.
So if Bose and App,e can make the most wonderful sound quality ear buds for $100-$200 bucks why can’t hearing aids be same price with superior quality too??? I just don’t get it…..
Because controlling the sound of audio streaming and direct audio input is easy. And I would say that their audio compared to higher-end headphones is not very good at all.
Why would I pay $4,000 for a set of hearing aids when I can buy them for $2,000? Your argument that 3 years of after care is included in the inflated price is disingenuous at best. Why should I pre-pay for 3 years of care from a provider when I don’t know if their care will be good, if they will even be in business in 3 years, or if I will be there for another 3 years. The “you get what you pay for” logic does not mean followup care must be pre-paid. We need more transparency and user empowerment in this industry. For example, the app for my hearing aids should support firmware upgrades, but it doesn’t even let me know that there is an upgrade available from my provider.
Actually, I totally agree with you. I don't prefer bundling 3 years of aftercare. I'm just explaining why some hearing aids cost more than others. I'm a little confused, did you hear me arguing that bundling is good? Because I don't feel that way at all.
@@Anonymous-mf8ii justifying the ethics behind each variable wasn't the point of the video. The point was to explain which variables could impact price.
@@DrCliffAuD I was almost burned by a higher-priced plan (where I could afford the basic technology level) that included services I wouldn’t be able to use after a move. I returned those aids during the trial period. After I moved I went through a discount program. That program let me get into the highest technology level at the same cost as my first purchase. I’d rather pay for services as needed than make that large initial investment. I like my current hearing aids, but I’m not crazy about the way this industry treats the end users, making us go through an audiologist for simple things like firmware updates.
Doctor Cliff, thanks for all the very informational videos. You gave me tons of pertinent information on hearing loss, what to expect, hearing aids and the processes involved. In the past three weeks I have gone through testing and fitting with my new Pronaks. I'm acclimating to my new soundscape! I'm loving it. My great admiration and gratitude for your straight forward presentation approach. How much was my hearing worth to me for the years that I have remaining? Every cent of what I was charged for the hardware, software and expertise of my audiologist and their continued care!
In the past, I suffered for six years, out of ignorance of my options, with an expensive pair of name-branded Phonaks purchased from a private audiologist to whom I was referred by Hearing Planet but who could never get them properly adjusted to enable me to comfortably understand my soft-spoken wife unless she shouted although I returned to him over and over for adjustments; now I hear and understand her every word with a pair of Costco KS9s (Really Phonak Marvels made by the same manufacturer).
This is because you guys are in a rigged industry. The hearing aids should be sold for a visible price. Manufacturers like Oticon etc will not let their hearing aids be sold 'online'. They have to be sold bundled with audiology backup. Fair enough, they are medical devices. But a $200-400 chargeback to an audiologist to sell/test/setup would be be enough (paid for by the manufacturers) and then consumers could choose separately for what kind of care plan they need/want/can afford and which audiologist they should go to rather than pay for all this in a single price, usually up front. Consumers can pay per hour or session if required. The whole experience currently lacks visibility and is murky. What if the audiologist is not right for the customer? This is often the case. What if the audiologist goes out of business? Most audiologists do not spend nearly enough time setting up and/or maintaining the hearing aids. A good audiologist is very important on an ongoing basis but right now consumers are not necessarily paying for what they actually get in terms of service quality. So, anyone who pays nearly $10k for a set of hearing aids may not be getting 'ripped off' but unless he/she is being followed around for hours and getting almost weekly service for years - it looks that way to me. I blame the manufacturers
I keep hearing from US citizens that you are so free! In Europe, where we are about 1.5 more residents, we have more or less free healthcare! As I live in Sweden, we have hearing aids that cost about $80 and with premium healthcare help. In addition, free help and service if something is wrong within the next 3-4 years and then free replacement of hearing aids after this time. With then with the new the same conditions as before ad infinitum. This only by having citizenship and qualifying for our healthcare! I hear that e.g. Obama Care was not feasible because you were such a big country and it cost too much! But as I said, you are about 1.5 times smaller than the EU, so where is your healthcare worth! We also offer certain acute parts without asking about citizenship. Only they have entered the EU. In addition, those with unknown citizenship have emergency medical care at no great cost in all EU countries. I think you have an informative channel and a good channel, but also, unfortunately, a channel that shows that health care with you without insurance (which seems to be very expensive) is for us in Europe back to the beginning of the 20th century! Why can't you manage to get healthcare that is more affordable for all citizens? As I said at the beginning, my new hearing aids cost $80 in our healthcare system inclusive of best practice as you describe as well as free support and service. For example, a friend who lost his hearing aids in the toilet by mistake had these replaced free of charge according to our care! Come on Trump country! where is your social public healthcare. Soon the USA will get to grips with what you lost after the 1940s development after the war! Besides, we weren't in it! But even the countries that were badly affected by it have long since passed on you!
👆You’re a troll and you’re lying about how things work in Europe. I live in Europe in Germany and I pay €450 per month for health insurance. Health insurance is not free. I have to pay €1600 for my new hearing aids and my insurance company will only finance a maximum of €500 for new hearing aids once every 6 years. You only know about the tiny country you live in Sweden and obviously you don’t know anything about “Europe” because you think the rest of Europe works like your one tiny country of Sweden.
Sadly hearing aid providers are lumped in with life insurance sales, used car lots and funeral service. They need to be upfront and justify their high costs with a complete price breakdown of services so consumers are aware what they are getting for their money in advance.
exactly. Imagine if your doctor told you he or she would cure you but wanted a 3 year contract up front
All of which to say is that perhaps the best model for patients is to separate the purchase of hearing aids from the "product" that is after-care. As it is currently, pricing is attached to the hearing aids that you buy, but the after-care is what drives most of the price differential from one store to the next. So it's probably better to have the competition that's driving the price structure. THAT would be much more transparent and beneficial for everyone. (except perhaps the audiologists).
I have two observations. First, I think that the price of any particular device should be the same regardless of where you're buying it. What should be variable is how much is charged for care because that is what varies from place to place. And, this should be know up front and itemized for the patient. The reason I believe this is because in my opinion hearing aides should be considered medically necessary devices for anyone diagnosed by an ENT with hearing loss. That leads me to my second observation. I believe that the real problem here is that the medical insurance industry needs to recognize hearing aides as medical devices when properly prescribed by an ENT. This is especially appropriate given the research linking hearing loss and tinnitus to onset of dementia.
For $9,000 I better be getting a mani and a pedi and a glass of champagne as well. 🤣🤣🤣
Went to Cosco. Great price, great service, unlimited aftercare, great support, and free replacement of hearing aids if lost in first 2 years.
Would Costco be viable for you if 30 miles away?
Dr. Cliff has always said there are some great hearing providers but also some weak ones in the Costco network. The trick is finding out which is true of Costcos in your vicinity. Yours is evidently one of the good ones.
@@wan2852 Dr.Cliff has said that some people, who can afford him, fly across the country to be served by him; so why wouldn't a person of lesser means be willing to drive 30 miles away if their needs can be met at a Costco Hearing Center instead of their local higher-priced local private clinic? Many people drive 30 or more miles away just to attend a sporting event or a concert!
Good explanation of the providers' share of HA prices. I'd like to see/hear a breakdown of the manufacturer's side: an overview of the percentages for technology/R&D, cost of production, and marketing vs profit margins. I realize all of these vary, and actual numbers may be unavailable, but even a best guess might give users an idea of why these devices are as expensive as they are.
I understand that there are 2 components, the actual cost of the hearing aids and the costs of aftercare. If these costs are separated, consumers would be better able to make judgements.
As for hardware, the hearing aid manufacturers who deal only with audiologists are not being transparent to the end customer- the wearer. Both need to be compensated fairly but neither disclose their prices. They only give you a cost of the package. This is a form of price fixing.
In my country, I was on summer vacation at the sea, I went with a friend to a cafe where some band performances are held. I ordered a beer, and so did she. we drank and then we get a bill in which the value is 20 times higher than the price of that beer compared to the price in the store.
When I saw the price, I was shocked, my blood pressure rose at that time. I paid for it, but since then I am careful when entering cafes and bars on the waterfront where such performances are held.
In these places, it is customary to pay for the performance of various bands along with the drink. I have nothing against it, but what bothers me the most is that it is often a change and then comes a shock.
That's why I try to see the price first, then I go sit down and ask for a drink.
What I would like when I enter is for the prices of the products to be clearly displayed so that I, as a customer, can be informed in advance before I ask for their services.
I think you need to do something similar. To put a text next to your the table in your audiology practice that in addition to the price of the hearing aids, the price of the service you provide is also charged
I have been to 2 hearings aid locations. Both of them asked for my insurance card before telling me how much the hearing aids cost. I was told I had great insurance and the hearing aids would cost over $10,000. I now will ask for price before they get my insurance cards.Turns out my price was adjusted to the large amount of the cost.( Both of these quotes were from Southern California.)Both places gave 1 service call for 3 yrs and both places encouraged me to come back for new hearing aids after 3 yrs.I've had trouble with both hearing aids brands after 1 to 2 yrs. Both companies just keep returning them without fixing them.Guess I'll just keep looking for another location.
This never will happened until hearing aid businesses, especially those working from high overhead office chains drop their business-for-profit businesses and focus on providing medical help for their patients. Since it’s highly immoral to sell medical devices using their patient helplessness to make more money. Hearing aids industry should be further deregulated and humanized, eliminate the market monopoly of very few that dictate the higher HA prices…
Thank you Dr Cliff. I have been going to an Audiologist fo 6 years. Never understood the price of hearing aids or why I never had to pay for repeat check ups. All makes sense now. Thanks so much. ❤
Do you see your audiologist (vs. a hearing aid tech) at each visit?
I blame your industry for not deciding (standardizing?) on whether or not the hearing aid pricing includes a high level of care. I finally got around that in my industry by pricing our widgets at the relatively same low price as everyone else and pricing the service that everyone needed and wanted at a fair price. Now we don't have to tap dance our pricing. Let me take a stab at it. Hearing Aids: $2000, $3000, or $4000. Fitting, Programming and Best Practices Care: $3000-$5000.
My iMac cost less than $2,000. I'd cut your estimate for the cost of a good hearing aid in half, if not more.
@@wan2852 Exactly. I don't care what is inside a hearing aid. At this point I don't think they should cost any more than $500 a pair. You can get the best Bluetooth Earbuds that have hearing aid features for under $300.
The gouging practiced by some hearing aid sellers here in Malaysia prevented me from committing to buying for 3 years!?! One of the places I went to was obviously a scam artist and he got a well deserved 1 star google review with a full on in depth review of what a scam master the owner was. Finally I bought from the one place I felt actually cared for me as a person. They didn’t push the expensive units but took time to go through all of my options, understood covid had destroyed my business, and didn’t judge my income by my skin color. Well done.
Here in Australia I have been quoted up to $10,000 ($6,500 US). The hearing aids I am currently trialling are the Evolv AI 1600 that I have seen advertised online for around $2,800. But from day one I could never undesrtand the absolute over the top cost of these things, bordering on insane!!! BTW not happy with the Evolv, after only 2 days the left side have failed - being returned today.
Dr. Cliff, I am unlucky and also lucky that my hearing problems were caused by my USMC service and now my hearing aids come from the V.A. Where I'm going with this is that that would not have happened without the help of a really good V.A. Rep. I am hoping some vets may see this and realize there is help for them but they may have to look for it.
Semper Fi.
It is still difficult to get the word out to veterans that they are entitled to hearing aids as a benefit of their military service and that their hearing loss does NOT have to have been service-related, an erroneous notion which deters many from applying.
Seiko used to sell their watches only through "approved jewelers." The profit margin was good. Then Seiko got greedy and began selling their watches in discount stores causing jewelers to match their prices. Hearing aid providers will be forced to do likewise (and probably are...).
I literally had to let go of my law enforcement profession because I couldn’t afford to get new hearing aids with appropriate Bluetooth technology. The government will provide hearing aids for certain people but not those serving and protecting their community. Sad times.
Did you look into your states department vocational rehabilitation services? States provide a program in which you can receive hearing aids from providers if you are a working adult. There is an income qualifying number, but you should look into it.
Dr. Cliff, I continue to follow and watch your videos because I learn from many of them and I always like to learn from and consider many points of view on topics of interest, but it occurs to me that the argument you make on this subject of pricing is self-imposed by the existing practice of your profession. When my medical doctor diagnoses my problems and prescribes and supervises my care, he charges for his services only. He doesn't roll into his charges the cost of my prescriptions, casts, appliances and possible physical therapy. So why don't the members of your profession accept the fact that they are perpetuating this problem by rolling the cost of the hearing aids into the services to be provided? Why not break the cost out and stop hiding which is for services and which is for a physical product which can be shopped for?
I live in Ukraine and i've bought pair of the Starkey Evolv AI 2400 RIC 312 for slightly more than $2k(for pair), consultations are free, regular hearing tests after purchase are free. I have no idea where the business is hidden there, but its great to get pair of high-end HA for that price.
So, why is care and hearing aids bundled in one price? It appears that the price is for the hearing aids alone, when it is not.
Initial evaluation ...
pick your budget level ...
hearing aid technology level 1
hearing aid technology level 2
follow up appointment 1 ...
Very little else is sold this way unless its emphasized (Your new car comes with 3 years of service for $)
What we can’t find out is the cost price paid for hearing aids. I’ll bet it’s a fraction of the price charged to customers.
Appreciate your explanation of cost structure. When the high level of support and service is offered to explain the high cost, will that support and service be put into writing.
Demand it.
Hearing Aids, Spectacles and Dentistry are all about Huge Markups and Margins!
How is Real Ear Measurement done?
Paid $1380 for a Livio 1000. But im in the UK.
First Costco i called for an appointment had Feb 7th 2024 for first opening. Second Costco i called had Jan 14th 2024, available. I've been wearing HA's for 21 years... i fully intend to give Costco the benefit of the doubt in services and products. Looking Forward to trying their Phillips ha's.
Isn't it obvious why this year Costco Hearing Centers are swamped and why private clinics are in a panic?
Why are hearing aids considered elective by insurance companies? Also, how do people with a fixed income go about getting the quality you speak of when it is so far out of what they can afford?
Thank you.
Phonak L90s, $2500. Am getting unbundled followup care locally. I could own these for five years and not even come close to $4500 worth of audiology followup appointments.
I don't even know if my provider is an audiologist or a tech. I know when she was selling them to me she was nothing but attention. After she got me, she was way more casual about the whole thing. Now I have a better understanding of the whole process and could take better advantage of the service I paid for. I would be less tolerant of some of her behavior, as well. But you don't know these things at first and you have no idea if you are paying too much for what you are going to get.
A Google search will tell you if she's an audiologist.
SO how about a video guiding us as to how to determine an appropriate price for hearing aid services. You have made it clear it depends, but at the end of the day we still need to determine "is that a fair price?"
You know Dr Cliff the problem is lack of transparency in hearing aid costs.while purchasing hearing aid patient should know what is hardware cost and what is cost of services of audiologist.I have no problem audiologist charging for their services and yes it differ from place to place but clean breakdown that is what needed.That is a reason why people cheer for Costco .
My audiologist hearing aid package deal includes free supplies, adjustments, and visits for as long as I own them. The first real ear measurement was included in the package. I've never felt the need for an additional real ear measurement. The annual hearing test is covered by my medical insurance.
Who sees you for these visits? Your audiologist or his/her tech?
@@wan2852 for the past 5 years, it's always been the audiologist...I've never seen a tech, occasionally she'll have a summer intern sit in during the appointment.
@@wan2852most likely both but I'm just guessing
Hi Doctor Cliff my Audiologist told me sorry I cannot fit you with a Phonak Cros hearing Aid as you have a collapsed ear canal on that ear , and it will keep falling out , I was very disappointed , I'm sure he is right , but just wondered if the ingenious people at Phonak had any solutions to a problem like this
No matter how it shakes out, the profit margin of hearing aids is vast. The free market will remedy it.
I would stay away from Beltone. It's the same as going to a used sales lot.
See an audiologist, not a sales dispenser.
And mentioned Dr. Cliff.
Around here you begin with an audiologist but then are turned over to a di$pen$er. 'Tis the luck of the draw if you find (and keep) a good one. Not good odd$.
@@wan2852 I now go to an audiologist facility. They are beneficial. They know I follow Dr. Cliff. He’s a game changer in the business.
I want to bring this hearing aid to Bangladesh. Is this product genuine? How to understand the original or fake? Is it ok to order from ebay??? This product should be bought for 6912$ if taken from my country Bangladesh. Where Ebay is giving at 3200$.
I wonder what the VA gets as a volume discount? 500 a pair?
So two servicing visits a year (for 3 years) included is best practices?
Technically, it is what happens within those visits that constitutes Best Practices.
If 6 visits aren't included in the pricing, should I look elsewhere? @@DrCliffAuD
The expertise of the Audiologist is also important. One who finished uni recently vs an Audiologist with 25 years experience. I know who I'd rather see. Also some come to an expert, do a test. Get a superb recommendation for the exact best product for their hearing, lifestyle and abilities. Then go to a cheap clinic with that information. That initial advice alone is worth lots yet they only pay for a hearing test etc.
Isn't that really a reasonable argument in support of unbundling? If the expert had required payment for his services separate and apart from the charge for the hearing aids he would have been entitled to payment; and then would have been in a position to also offer the sale of the hearing aids at the same lower price as the "cheap clinic" so it would be a win-win situation for both the client and the audiologist then, wouldn't it?
In my uneducated opinion, the hearing aid business is just like the prescription medicine business. I would imagine that the computing power and components of a hearing aid is just a tiny portion of what research and technology goes into a hearing aid compared to what goes into a cell phone. I have needed hearing aids for decades, and I have never been able to afford them. I have lived in Ecuador for over a decade because it is much more affordable than the States, and there are no programs to help those who can't afford the highly inflated costs of hearing aids. I believe they are somewhat less expensive here than in the States, but maybe one or two thousand dollars less. Sadly the new over the counter hearing aids won't work for me due to my high level of hearing loss. I keep waiting for a company to come out with high quality, low cost hearing aids, but the large manufacturers will never let that happen. So I just to continue to say "what did you say', and that is frustrating to both of us. But unfortunately I doubt anything will change any time soon in regard to pricing, because it is like most big businesses which is simply the bottom line. They want to make their investors more money, and to get that situation to budge is never going to happen. So Sad. As long as they can get away with it, they will continue to over inflate the prices 10 fold to what the actual cost to produce their products is. Prescription meds in Ecuador cost about 10% on average to what the identical medicines cost in the States. Not generic, same manufacturer, same product. But the government here has not been able to do that with hearing aids. Maybe someday.
I think the biggest mistake most people considering treatment make is they tend to put far to much focus on the devices themselves. If you change the perspective from shopping for hearing aids to instead shopping for a provider you will be significantly more likely to find success and satisfaction.
and then you will see that you are paying up to $1000 per hour for service
@@davidtabizel7727 I don’t think anybody is getting away with $1000 per hour on service alone. I can’t speak for all clinics in all states but I have done the math for myself. Per hour I spend with a patient I have to generate at least $167 per hour to cover the expense of doing business where I am at. Within the first 4 years of a hearing aid fitting I spend on average of 10-12 hours with a patient. There is rent cost, device cost, warranties, equipment, calibration, support staff, marketing, etc. It can add up very quick.
Bottom line…..healthcare needs to be more transparent and allow consumers (patients) to compare apples to apples.
ALL audiologist clinics need to have a busy restaurants next door. After you get your hearing aids go to the business and then you will get part of a real world test of your hearing aids.
Great idea! Maybe the audiologist could go to lunch with the newly-fitted client, make suggestions as the client vocalizes his reactions in situ, and might offer to pick up the check! LOL 🤣
Cliff, the industry you participate in (medical/health insurance industrial complex) is not very transparent. Combining product and service into one price is part of what causes mistrust among consumers. It would be interesting to understand what hearing aids/service cost in other countries to understand the real acceptable market price. I just purchased my first set of hearing aids from Costco (Jabra Enhance Pro 20) and while I am not so satisfied with the product due to streaming/bluetooth shortfalls, I have been very impressed with the care and expertise of the person who has served me. I have had two sessions at Costco which have a combined total of 60-75 minutes. What is that amount of time worth for a person who is trained to fit hearing aides? And yes, I understand some folks have special circumstances that require advanced treatment and in our 'for profit' medical system they should be expected to pay more for that treatment.
Would you recommend Jabra enhance Pro 20? I have an appointment and I was thinking to upgrade from Phonak Marvel
They are highly rated, the battery life is really incredible, they are very small and non-intrusive and when it comes to listening and interacting with people, they seem quite good. What I am really disappointed in is - I can not stream from my laptop, or TV (need expensive streamer for multiple TV's) Streaming podcasts while driving to work and streaming radio while driving is not ready for prime-time. Sound cuts in and out, one ear then the other cutting out, versus hearing people, sound quality is poor, only higher notes, very little to no bass. I have a work phone and a personal phone, it is really a hassle switching back and forth between phones to take calls, etc. I thought noise cancellation would be much better than it is. I thought Auracast would benefit managing multiple devices but it doesnt seem that way. I am working and on the move so my criticisms are important to me. You may have a different lifestyle or set of needs. The good thing about purchasing from Costco is they offer a six month satisfaction guarantee so you have time to decide whether or not they meet your needs. I am hoping Jabra will fix the bluetooth/streaming issues quickly so I don't have to return these and start over. I've never had these types of problems with inexpensive ear buds...@@marianawoehlke9157
@@dougstuart8553 Thank you so much 🙏
@marianawoehlke9157 I have the Phonak Marvel twin - the Costco KS9s - and I am sticking with them until Costco or the OTC market begins selling a newer model that treats my present loss, some severe and profound loss at higher frequencies, as excellently as the KS9s do. Maybe by next year sometime. In the meantime I am enjoying the ones I have and Costco's great continuing aftercare, along with their flawless Android connectivity.
So if Bose and App,e can make the most wonderful sound quality ear buds for $100-$200 bucks why can’t hearing aids be same price with superior quality too??? I just don’t get it…..
Because controlling the sound of audio streaming and direct audio input is easy. And I would say that their audio compared to higher-end headphones is not very good at all.
I've used that George Carlin joke for referencing various things. Still true!
My comment was deleted - guess I shouldn't have mentioned price that I paid and where.
The first question is do you have $9000.00 ????
How about $ 4000 ?? .....Ripoff !!! Not a penny more than $ 500.00 !!!
Why would I pay $4,000 for a set of hearing aids when I can buy them for $2,000?
Your argument that 3 years of after care is included in the inflated price is disingenuous at best. Why should I pre-pay for 3 years of care from a provider when I don’t know if their care will be good, if they will even be in business in 3 years, or if I will be there for another 3 years.
The “you get what you pay for” logic does not mean followup care must be pre-paid.
We need more transparency and user empowerment in this industry. For example, the app for my hearing aids should support firmware upgrades, but it doesn’t even let me know that there is an upgrade available from my provider.
Actually, I totally agree with you. I don't prefer bundling 3 years of aftercare. I'm just explaining why some hearing aids cost more than others. I'm a little confused, did you hear me arguing that bundling is good? Because I don't feel that way at all.
@@DrCliffAuD No, but I didn’t hear you speaking out against it when you offered it as an explanation.
@@Anonymous-mf8ii justifying the ethics behind each variable wasn't the point of the video. The point was to explain which variables could impact price.
@@DrCliffAuD I was almost burned by a higher-priced plan (where I could afford the basic technology level) that included services I wouldn’t be able to use after a move. I returned those aids during the trial period.
After I moved I went through a discount program. That program let me get into the highest technology level at the same cost as my first purchase. I’d rather pay for services as needed than make that large initial investment. I like my current hearing aids, but I’m not crazy about the way this industry treats the end users, making us go through an audiologist for simple things like firmware updates.
Doctor Cliff, thanks for all the very informational videos. You gave me tons of pertinent information on hearing loss, what to expect, hearing aids and the processes involved. In the past three weeks I have gone through testing and fitting with my new Pronaks. I'm acclimating to my new soundscape! I'm loving it. My great admiration and gratitude for your straight forward presentation approach. How much was my hearing worth to me for the years that I have remaining? Every cent of what I was charged for the hardware, software and expertise of my audiologist and their continued care!
Just tell us what is a fair price for a set of aids. It’s a rip off industry and it sounds to me that you are part of the problem..
In the past, I suffered for six years, out of ignorance of my options, with an expensive pair of name-branded Phonaks purchased from a private audiologist to whom I was referred by Hearing Planet but who could never get them properly adjusted to enable me to comfortably understand my soft-spoken wife unless she shouted although I returned to him over and over for adjustments; now I hear and understand her every word with a pair of Costco KS9s (Really Phonak Marvels made by the same manufacturer).
This is because you guys are in a rigged industry. The hearing aids should be sold for a visible price. Manufacturers like Oticon etc will not let their hearing aids be sold 'online'. They have to be sold bundled with audiology backup. Fair enough, they are medical devices. But a $200-400 chargeback to an audiologist to sell/test/setup would be be enough (paid for by the manufacturers) and then consumers could choose separately for what kind of care plan they need/want/can afford and which audiologist they should go to rather than pay for all this in a single price, usually up front. Consumers can pay per hour or session if required. The whole experience currently lacks visibility and is murky. What if the audiologist is not right for the customer? This is often the case. What if the audiologist goes out of business? Most audiologists do not spend nearly enough time setting up and/or maintaining the hearing aids. A good audiologist is very important on an ongoing basis but right now consumers are not necessarily paying for what they actually get in terms of service quality. So, anyone who pays nearly $10k for a set of hearing aids may not be getting 'ripped off' but unless he/she is being followed around for hours and getting almost weekly service for years - it looks that way to me. I blame the manufacturers
I like you,not there’s anything wrong with that.
When you said $9k you lost me....................sorry....
I keep hearing from US citizens that you are so free!
In Europe, where we are about 1.5 more residents, we have more or less free healthcare! As I live in Sweden, we have hearing aids that cost about $80 and with premium healthcare help. In addition, free help and service if something is wrong within the next 3-4 years and then free replacement of hearing aids after this time. With then with the new the same conditions as before ad infinitum. This only by having citizenship and qualifying for our healthcare!
I hear that e.g. Obama Care was not feasible because you were such a big country and it cost too much!
But as I said, you are about 1.5 times smaller than the EU, so where is your healthcare worth! We also offer certain acute parts without asking about citizenship. Only they have entered the EU. In addition, those with unknown citizenship have emergency medical care at no great cost in all EU countries.
I think you have an informative channel and a good channel, but also, unfortunately, a channel that shows that health care with you without insurance (which seems to be very expensive) is for us in Europe back to the beginning of the 20th century!
Why can't you manage to get healthcare that is more affordable for all citizens?
As I said at the beginning, my new hearing aids cost $80 in our healthcare system inclusive of best practice as you describe as well as free support and service. For example, a friend who lost his hearing aids in the toilet by mistake had these replaced free of charge according to our care!
Come on Trump country! where is your social public healthcare. Soon the USA will get to grips with what you lost after the 1940s development after the war! Besides, we weren't in it! But even the countries that were badly affected by it have long since passed on you!
👆You’re a troll and you’re lying about how things work in Europe. I live in Europe in Germany and I pay €450 per month for health insurance. Health insurance is not free. I have to pay €1600 for my new hearing aids and my insurance company will only finance a maximum of €500 for new hearing aids once every 6 years. You only know about the tiny country you live in Sweden and obviously you don’t know anything about “Europe” because you think the rest of Europe works like your one tiny country of Sweden.