Thank you Doctor Cliff for sharing your experiences. I am on the market for some new hearing aids, and I think this is the 3rd video of yours I have watched. They are very informative and you are awesome for helping patients understand the industry. Kudos!
Well, this explains a lot. I've been going to an ENT/Audiology clinic in a large medical center -- very modern, very well staffed and well equipped. But this year I got Medicare so I went to a TruHearing clinic. It was like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. The clinic was a teeny one-man shop in a remote strip mall, with equipment that was one generation newer than vacuum tubes. Clearly this audiologist hasn't had any new capital expenses in years, so for him, the TruHearing reimbursements probably DO cover expenses!
Thanks for the information. I just called Truhearing and they set up an appointment for me. Because of this video I can now have a more informed discussion with the provider. I have BC/BS in Michigan and Truhearing is optional. I have tinnitus in both ears and hearingand in one ear is worse than the other ear. If I am going need a high level of after-care then the best choice my be to skip Truhearing. What do you think about that? I saw an ENT and their Audiologist over a year ago but I couldn't pull the trigger. I imagine you have to spend a lot of time with some patients that have complicated hearing issues. And for that I commend you! For those commenting negatively on your expenses and income I think they missed the point. If Truhearing sells something for less money then something has to "give". It is a matter of you get what you pay for. I have watched many of your videos and they are very helpful. Thanks again.
I'm in Michigan and have TruHearing, although my Medicare Advantage plan is with Humana, not BCBSM (had BCBSM for most of my life, though). Tinnitus and hearing loss in both ears. left worse than right. Pretty happy with the hearing aids; it's been less than a year.
Just getting a hearing aid benefit for my daughter for the first time, and yes Truhearing is the provider through Humana. I feel like I am walking into a trap because the clinic is a "mobile" one that doesn't seem to be able to answer any questions ahead of the appointment I don't want to waste their time, but I also don't want to use up a benefit office call just to find out what the extras may cost. Thanks for the video, it was informative and helpful.
I love how honest you were about all this and how you expressed how it’s hard being under that kind of pressure, but you stayed true to yourself, I like that. Keep being awesome! :)
This gives me more respect for my local TruHearing provider, since those are the hearing aids I have. Thanks for the insight. Sorry it didn't work out for you.
I recently had exams with Beltone and two hearing clinics that have Audiologists. The clinic I was most impressed with happened to be in the TruHearing network. That is where I purchased my Phonak Paradise P90R hearing aids with a very steep discount. I couldn't have justified spending the high price of those hearing aids without that discount. I feel very fortunate to have found that provider. I do understand your viewpoint though. Love your videos.
I went to a TruHearing provider to assist my husband since I already had hearing aids. During the visit with the provider, he pushed us to purchase the most expensive level of technology for the hearing aids he recommended. When I asked the provider for written material explaining the difference between the various levels of technology so we could review it at home, he said he didn’t have any. That is a big red flag when considering any purchase.
Another issue not mentioned in the video is that TruHearing pays providers the same regardless of what ZIP code they practice in, and what credentials they have. I think most patients understand that it costs more to do business in a place like Honolulu than it does in Louisville. As long as TruHearing doesn't understand this, patients in expensive metro areas will have a tough time finding a provider that accepts TruHearing who is not lowering their standard of care to serve those patients. Many patients are also willing to accept that it might cost more to be seen by a Doctor of Audiology than a Hearing Instrument Specialist, though obviously working with an "AuD" doesn't guarantee superior results.
Thank you for sharing the true circumstances when our insurance encourages patients to buy into a TruHearing product. Fortunately I have an audiologist who I trust and offers quality care with follow up at no cost and deals with a different hearling aid company that provides their product so that both they and the practitioner can make a reasonable profit at a fair price to the patient. This whole story yet again brings to light that before we can have universal health care for the nation - providers, hospital administrators and folks involved in health care products need to be ethical and honest as they provide patient care.
I am trying to decide whether to use my TruHearing benefits or go with the expensive hearing aids that I can't afford. I really like the hearing facility I am at , but the Hearing Instrument Specialist is kind of convincing me to go with the expensive hearing aids through him and not through TruHearing. It shouldn't be this difficult for something that a lot of people need to have. Thank you for your video.
Just came from my TruHearing fitting attempt. After my "free" hearing test I opted for the Flagship models. They pushed the Oticon Opn S1. I didn't agree as I am an android guy. When I walked in the office I noticed a big display for Oticon aids and the different colors. Mind you, they offer 53 Flagship choices but you will only see displays for Oticon. I asked for the Phonak Audeo M90-r. She said the charger may cost more. It didn't. She said if I went with Oticon I can purchase a clip for Android and d/l the app. I said reviews are not favorable. So I am set to get fitted next week with the Marvel's. Before leaving I asked, "It looked like you were going to use REM?" She said no. They used to but someone came in and said, "No more Real Ear Measurements." She said she is trying to get it back. Right! I might as well be walking around with glasses that are not the correct prescription. Not sure what to do since they don't do REM. Thanks for all your vids Doctor. I feel sad for those that haven't a clue or just chose to settle. “primum non nocere”...first, do no harm.
We are going through the TruHearing pains in our private practice this year! Revenue is way down, private pay sales are almost non existent. I’m feeling like this is almost a Sherman Anti-Trust issue. Would love to hear your thoughts.
As an audiology clinic with truhearing has been trouble lately as they now call offices throwing there weight around if they get untrue patient complaints due to the number of visits patients demand. its been very emotionally and physically exhausting and we are seriously drained from truhearing as a managed care provider because of the heavy handed tactics of late. Senior citizens require alot of care and time and TruHearing expects you to spend dozens of hours over the course of a year for the one time fee they pay us.
Thank you so much for your informative hearing aid videos. I purchased hearing aids through a clinic that is part of my ENT doctor's practice. They did give me a larger discount than they normally do because I have the TruHearing plan although they are not a part of TruHearing. However with the follow-up care the total cost is $700 higher than TruHearing's cost. I do get unlimited visits with them but TruHearing said that I could save a lot by using their doctors and just pay for individual visits. Now that you explained why you are not with them, I'm thinking that maybe I should just stay with my doctor and pay the higher cost because I will probably get better care, attention, and programming of my hearing aids. It doesn't make sense to pay thousands of dollars for hearing aids and then to try to save money on follow-up care only to find that they have not taken the time or care to program and service the hearing aids correctly.
My insurance company paid for my Tru Hearing hearing aids. The really bad part is that the person that was helping me get my aids adjusted left the office she was using in a doctor's office and I have no one to help me now. I can't adjust my sound level and I can't hear with the aids in my ears. They were not cheap and I'm considering contacting my insurance company and let them know what has happened to me. So, be careful if you are considering Tru Hearing hearing aids. For now, I'm "out in the cold".
Yeah, unfortunately this is a common problem. Fly by night hearing care providers who join managed care groups only to provide little to no actual care. Consumer beware.
To Betty and To MsTinaMichelle. You have absolutely no need to worry about a follow up visit with a qualified audiologist because you have the same Humana insurance I have. Just call your local Humana rep (and make sure you keep their phone number on file). They will reschedule a no cost follow up. As for Dr Wannabe Celebrity's answer who now claims that the clinic is a fly-by-night provider and will not provide enough care, that is absurd. He is the one who only had his license to practice 12 months before he posted this video trashing TruHearing and their providers. And now he wants you to believe that it is a "common problem" and "buyer beware" when it comes to insurance companies and TruHearing.
I don't know what any of this means but I can definitely say that any of those middle men have a warm place waiting for them down under... and I don't mean Sydney. I am sick and tired of these middle men. I wasted so much money on these "wellness" or "aftercare" plans that would offer discounts. It's bad enough we have to deal with insurance. Newsflash: Insurance companies are out there to make money. I have a hearing issue. It causes my body to shake. For three years I have suffered. When I had a normal PPO, doctors would smile and say, "come on in... let's sit down and talk." When I was forced onto the ACA, it was like I'd show up and they'd open up a speakeasy grille and ask, "Who is this? You got money? I can give you 15 minutes. Wait here for an hour." I swear it was night and day. I forgot how good it was when until this year when I had a good PPO with my job. Unfortunately, I lost both the job and the PPO. I've been without care for 3 months. The paperwork to go back on ACA doesn't happen immediately. Now they want me to go onto an ACO. Doctors are forced to either close shop and join a hospital (which leaves you paying outpatient copays and not clinical visits) or... you seek help online. I've had tinnitus for 30+ years. Since a kid. I ignored it for a long time but now the whole of my right side of my body is either vibrating or the right ear is ringing so loud that I can't hear TV. (this is new in the last month). The right eye twitches, I can feel my eyes rapidly moving when I shut my eyes, my hearing aids for hyperacusis don't work and yeah... it's not greedy doctors. It's the insane idea that everyone needs insurance. No one should NEED insurance. You should be able to manage without it because guess what, we still have no clue what is being charged and it varies. Think of all that extra money you pay in premiums and copays actually going to your illness! For me, it would be... around $15,120 That is what is going to the insurance companies. For one person. Who is saving me money again?
so, what it boils down to is that you get to charge high fees in your area and you're whining about it. It's the patient and TruHearing's fault that you aren't making your margin. Hint: you're supposed to use averaging to assess the overall value of your business. You pinpoint each aspect of your business income, but unless it produces a loss, you're looking at it wrong.
as an Optometrist, I understand as well. The doc wants to provide a high-quality experience from beginning to end. He is not the sole provider running the whole show. He has staff, and a large clinic with good equipment, and wants to spend the proper time with his patients to uncover and satisfy all their needs. Good for him. Tru Hearing doesn't allow this.
Im going for a hearing aid evaluation and i was told my insurance will not cover but when i spoke to my insurance, i was told i am 100% covered up to $2,500--Why would the hearing aid evaluation be a separate fee? its a $200 fee.
@@SS-dm5iy how about being mad at the companies making the hearing aids? Any chance that they are over charging for their products? Seems odd to me that such a tiny thing should cost so much. Sure, it's high tech, but so is my brand new Dell desktop computer that I got for $1,200 loaded with everything.
Spoke to someone yesterday who got hearing aids back in February. She has the same Medicare Advantage plan as I have -- which means she was referred to a TruHearing provider. The person came to her home three times, once to do the measurements, once to fit the aids, and once to make adjustments. I did not ask how much she paid for her Phonak aids, nor do I know which model or technology level she has, but the questions in my mind are (a) how was the hearing aid person able to set up a sufficiently soundproof environment in the client's own home? (b) how likely is it that the REM equipment was transported to the client's home?
... Obamacare has nothing to do with this..... Absolutely nothing. Whats even worse tho, is that you do not even understand that we were having/are having these exact problems before and after "obamacare". Which means you *understand* nothing about how the medical system works and even less about how obamacare works. But let me give you the 411, obamacare was largely put into place in order to try and help a *REALLY* broken medical system. Pre-existing conditions, lowering costs, helping with corporate owned care, etc., etc. The problem is hmo's ( health management organizations; like doctors offices, x-ray, blood work, etc ) and hospitals had to start working with bigger and bigger insurance companies. These insurance companies ( just like TruHearing ) would force these hmo's and hospitals to work within their payment systems... sometimes to the tune of 90% or more off to visits and procedure's... that is not an exaggeration. If the hospitals refused to work with these big insurance companies they would loose thousands+ patients, and they cannot afford that. But they also cannot afford to only make 10% of what it costs per visit/procedure. So the hmo's and hospitals had to raise prices... dramatically raise prices. It has gotten so bad that a procedure like putting an I.V. and a bag of saline solution on a patient costs 167$+... when in actuality it costs the hospital or doctor less than a dollar in cost. Doctors visits, which I remember in the 80's costing like 50$ per visit... now that's a cheap co-pay for insurance. In Japan it costs around 300ish dollars for an MRI scan. In America its anywhere from 1000 to 4000.......... The main reason obamacare "seems" to cost more now is that it forces insurance companies to take those with pre-existing conditions. Before the insurance companies refused anyone with them. So they raised their prices, but *make no mistake* these were what the prices were always like, the insurance companies were just playing a shell game with everyone and especially healthy people. The only way to fix this is to either get rid of all insurance companies and let the market eventually decide ( tho a lot of people will most likely die ). Another way is to set prices and stop insurance companies from asking for more than 20 to 30 percent off. So that if we choose we can try to pay without insurance and not lose the shirt off our backs. And lastly, is a single payer system. Option one will not work because everyone will scream bloody murder about prices and people dying, option 2 will not work because I do not see our government being able to actually set prices reasonably when things are already this bad and both dems and reps are in their pockets... so that leaves option 3 as the only pragmatic choice, and we can most definitely pay for it, because as the only insurance company we can lower costs and god forbid we take some money from the military to do it as well... we already spend more on the military than the top 3 other countries combined. I really hope you learned something.
Samalanderable I’m sorry you had to type all that over a sarcastic remark. But, it was very nice of you. This industry is going through what eye care did years ago. Third party’s like hearUSA and true hearing use high pressure sales and puts the providers in the hot seat. But, it’s the future and providers will have tough choice to accept it or not.
@@sirsquatch2347 My apologies then~ It is hard to detect sarcasm on the internet. And it seems its even harder for me not to get passionate over things I care about.
@@Samalanderable What your opinion on Truehearing and Hear.com? Personally, I don't like taking Hear.com and am thinking about dropping them due to high pressure sales.
And if you like your doctor you can keep your doctor . . . PERIOD, Oh and the average family will save $2500 per year. Yeah, tell us more about Obamacare
Hey Dr. Cliff! This is an unrelated question. I’m currently studying to get my hearing aid dispensing license. I was just wondering if you use a PC-based audiometer or a stand-alone one to conduct your hearing tests. Which do you recommend? Also, which software do you use to perform real ear measurements? Thanks
In your experience, did you find that Tru-hearing's available devices were of lesser quality than others you might otherwise have prescribed? My insurance plan only allowed Resound aids and I bought the Flyte model which was the upgraded model with a remote, but I haven't noticed a great improvement in my hearing.
TruHearing basically offers most of the top hearing aid brands. The same ones you can find in almost any hearing clinic. The Flyte models aren't my favorite because they are based on only one model of hearing aids which may not be the best for a particular patient. There are a variety of factors that will dictate how much benefit you receive from hearing aids, but the biggest factor is usually how they are programmed.
I have 8 friends that have gotten hearing aids through Trurhearing. They have told me that among them, not a one has had a follow up visit that lasted more than 25 minutes at most. The only exception to those is a friend who had a trauma to their ear and had to have a revaluation of their hearing loss in that ear. If $65 for an average of around 20 minutes is not enough then maybe your business is over extended financially and you might want to address that. I get cost vs. Time and all that. I ran a business for several years. While you strike me as a medical professional with your patients care in the foreground, the medical professions give to excuse of "cost vs. reducing the level of care" is a crutch. If medical professionals honored the oaths they take then the amount of money involved should have zero effect on the amount of time or care given to a patient. I have a friend who is a real doctor with a specialty in virology. He shares that same view. He told me and my wife that he was practically forced out of medical school because of his viewpoint. He said one of things that is driven into your head constantly is this bogus concept of "cost vs. Level of patient care". This thinking is in direct violation of the hippocratic oath. Plain and simple.
Well if we go back ten years ago, none of that is an issue. The insurance writes a check for what they cover, and you get the care you need that has already been figured out. The problem is they are completely flipping the way we do business on its head. An average clinic costs about $400-$500 per day to operate. I fit 13 new hearing aid in April (pretty bad month, but it has been like this all year in 2022). The fitting fee most of the time hovers around $300-$400 per instrument. That means you have to fit a hearing aid every single day and do quite a few paid services to break even. That just isn't realistic. Sorry, I can't just "break even". I've 4 people at home that need a roof over the head and food on the table. I've got personal bills too, not just the clinic.
@@SS-dm5iy And while I understand all this it still boils down to a business bei g overextended on their expenses, and laying the blame for so much on the insurance industry. Doctors and the AMA are just as much to blame for the price issues in this country as the insurance companies are. I have 3 close friends who have all been to medical school and told me all about the stupidity that is the AMA and the way things are done and decided. None of this justifies something that costs around $1500 for a good pair costing 3 to 4 times that amount at an audiologists office just because they have "expenses" that they helped create and could mitigate by drawing a line in the sand and fircing change in a corrupt industry and in a corrupt agency like the AMA. I ran a multimillion dollar business for 20 years with an average 150 employees at any given time. I understand the costs of just having the lights on and tge doors open, but I also understand that there are costs that can be avoided. Every aspect of the medical world today likes to lay the blame on insurance companies and other scapegoats. The real problem is the entire medical community. The schools, the teachers, the hospitals, the AMA, .... everything to do with it. It's become a monster of its own creation and now the monster wants to blame everyone but itself.
@@shawnwilt7196 So what cost can be avoided? Where am I overextended? My receptionist makes about $17 an hour. I used to spend about $10,000 a month in advertising. I have cut back to about $2,000. We aren't overextended. The insurance companies and middle men and manufacturers have aligned to make the bulk of the money on these "managed care" deals, and they throw us a few hundred dollars. Where can we cut back? I would need to fit 40 new hearing aids a month to make a middle class living. The most I have ever fit in my 17 year career in a month is like 35.
I applaud you standing up for the care your customers deserve. I hate what our healthcare has become, all about the $$$$$. These insurance companies charge exorbitant fees and yet they want to send you to cheap facilities. Keep up the great videos.
Perhaps the money thing is a problem for him per his story. That said, it sounds like the usual I can't make enough money to survive (takes a lot of money to be rich). I hope Tru Hearing works for my wife, we will find out today as her HUMANA Advantage Insurance offers a Co-Pay of $395 and $595 for two different hearing aids thru Tru-Hearing. Provided thru Bridgewater in Knoxville. I might add recommended by U of TN Hearing and Search department where she had a test and diagnosis. I might add that the DR of Audiology Professor spent time discussing aids, needs of patient, and costs VS needs. I will just say, many features that drive costs up to $1000s per aid are not justified in my opinion.
Ouch, tough crowd. None the less, I hope things work out for your wife. The low-cost devices from TruHearing are pretty good ones. I'm glad you were able to receive good information from the subsidized audiologists at the U of TN department. They are outstanding at what they do.
Paul, that is great for your wife...but not all people's hearing loss is the same. Not only do you have to deal with the actual loss of hearing, but also with things like tinnitus, and speech discrimination (although they have a new term for it now, but I can't remember what it is) Not everyone will benefit from low cost hearing aids. They would be more or less useless for someone like myself who has severe to profound hearing loss and 50% speech discrimination in one ear and 30% in the other. (and 24/7 tinnitus, but I don't even notice it anymore unless the "tone" changes) Every little bit of added clarity/fidelity goes a long way in helping me to understand what is being said...but even with the best, I know I will always struggle understanding speech, but every little added bit of technology helps.
@@suzanneabad3539 The hearing aids offered in the TruHearing plan are not low cost devices by any stretch. Signia 5 and 7's are some of the best hearing aids made. They typically sell at high prices because of all the features.
This sounds almost exactly what my dad’s insurance is offering. I had to stop him from buying Nanos off of the internet because he can’t wait one more week for his appointment. He had the hearing test at my house over the phone. This is the only way we can afford any kind of decent hearing aides. I told my brother that the Nanos sounded like a great deal but after doing a little research I’ve talked them into waiting and paying just a little bit more. This is his only way. My mom, dad, and our whole family are so glad to finally get something done for him with this insurance. Otherwise he would be so depressed as he has been for the past two years. I can’t stand to see him like this any more. I want to buy him some but I’m out of work at the moment as technology took over my job of a medical transcriptions for the past thirty years. Ugh. At least it lasted until my daughter went to college. Another big expense why I can’t afford to pay a big price. I just hope they have something good for him and we are doing the right thing. I would not let my brother order those others.
"That said, it sounds like the usual I can't make enough money to survive (takes a lot of money to be rich). " Reminds me of a school teacher friend, member of a powerful labor union, making $80 K/yr. Way more than I've ever made.
I’m glad to see this. I’ve been really worried about my dad. He is in a very low fixed income and is 83. He has severe hearing loss and has been going through one hearing amplifier after another from Walgreens five years now, ever since his expensive pair got so old and broke. His audiologist told him that to get another pair like he had equally as good it would cost him $6000. My parents were devastated. Since my dad got Parkinson’s it’s been very rough. We now have gotten him on a more better insurance plan Humana that provides hearing coverage from Truhearing. So far they have been very, very nice. It’s all mobile so far which is okay with us as they don’t like to get out. He took a test and has an appointment next Tuesday. He’s so desperate because my brother is living with them at the moment and is going crazy and is impatient with him having the TV turned all the way up. My brother lost his home in hurricane Laura and is staying with my parents. They called me asking me about trying to get these other hearing aides on line called Nanos and the price is even lower but I do not trust them. He’s trying to jump the gun and get them even sooner and save him more money. They were pushing me to get them for him but I don’t want to back down and I still want to go through the insurance and Truhearing. For my dad, it’s his ONLY choice. I don’t have any idea what they mean about having the standard plan versus superior. I have no idea what choices they have. I know that he hates the over the ear kind and they only like the battery kind that aren’t rechargeable. They are old school and are tired of all of the wires everywhere from these cheap amplifier rechargeable ones that he is constantly having to purchase at least once a month. They drive them nuts. They loved his old ones that took regular batteries that would last a good while. I will look the RIC device up for 800. That would be so great if it would work for him. Of course it’s whatever they recommend to him for his hearing. Thank you. Any input or any updates on these would be awesome. I’m so worried about getting him something that won’t work in six months or not doing the right thing for him.
@@hopekounter8488 mine came with a years supply of batteries. Had them almost a year and it has changed my life for the better. The over the ear unit is small and easy to wear. Good luck
To Hope and To Bob. Thank you for your testimonials. I too have the same Humana plan with no deductible. And the audiologist that I saw was sharp as a tack. The original wannabe celebrity audiologist who posted this video (Dr C), had just got his license 12 months before he came here to rip apart TruHearing. He's a youngster who thinks he is entitled. But you already know that, so enjoy the harvest and let sourpuss reap what he has sowed.
My Advantage Care Plan only accepts TruHearing. There is an office at the Rochester Hearing and Speech Center here in Rochester, NY. Their website says they have been around for 97 years. Do you think my odds of getting a GOOD fitting for A hearing aid is maybe a little better than average.? (I already have a recent and full eval. from University of Rochester; they have hearing aids but while my insurance will accept the doctor, they won't accept the hearing aids.)
We have Humana Advantage plan.. we had to go through TruHearing. They said there was a $700 and a $1000 model but of course we needed the $1000 model in each ear. If you want it rechargeable, add another $150 for the charger. Don't tell me they aren't making money. They are.
bray721 second agoBobby Barker. Rather uninformed and simplistic comment. Hearing aids WAY WAY overpriced? What is your support. It IS a competitive market which tends to control pricing. Also what is your basis for suggesting $65 is an adequate fee? Do you know the costs of doing this particular business. And what is the inference re: breaking even? What business wants to BREAK EVEN? Seems like you might not have any experience running a business profitably.
I have watched hours of your videos for education as to see what is to come..I recently retired from a high noise job after 41 yrs..I know my hearing is not good, I have been told I have a moderate loss. Even with ear plugs over the years my company started designated some work areas as dual protect areas, nice to know after years of working around screaming equipment..I will have to check my insurance & see if I have any coverage for hearing aides. I am now in NW Phoenix & would like to do business with you as you know your stuff..so what would you say I should expect to pay, nothing over the top, nothing overly fancy, might like inter-ear type if possible? Thanks, Ken
Hey Ken. Call my clinic on Monday and talk to Sarah. We can verify your insurance for you and it will give me a better idea of what you would expect to pay. 623-777-5943.
Doctor Cliff, AuD I wish you were in Arkansas...I have gone to Graham Hearing and they perform real time Hearing with every one of their patients who they fit for Hearing Aids and I wouldn’t have known about that to ask if your videos were never made so thank you Dr. Cliff,AuD
So you say that $65 appointment fee is not enough for you to make money?? That's sounds pretty decent to me. What would be an amount you'd need to charge to "break even" We all know that hearing aids are WAY WAY overpriced. So for every customer you can sell to you will more than just break even.. it's a cash cow. And happy customers bring other customers or may or may not have TueHearing. But if you have your own Customer Base then that's fine. Another problem we ran into is that if you sell a $1000 hearing aide to a client and they die a few months later.. Then you will not buy it back. Why not? Why can't there be a buy back program.. Even if you only gave the spouse $100 back you might be able to resell those same hearing aids (reprogrammed of course) or a used fee of say $700 but you'd still be making money. it's a Cash Cow.
I was thinking the same thing with my dental implant. Someone else could use that when I die. But seriously, I will not share my specific clinic costs, but my cost of operation is over double the reimbursement rate from TruHearing. I have considered a buyback program if a patient passes away. Just need to figure out the logistics of doing this. You looking for a job?
Bobby Barker. Rather uninformed and simplistic comment. Hearing aids WAY WAY overpriced? What is your support. It IS a competitive market which tends to control pricing. Also what is your basis for suggesting $65 is an adequate fee? Do you know the costs of doing this particular business. And what is the inference re: breaking even? What business wants to BREAK EVEN? Seems like you might not have any experience running a business profitably.
Always beware when the hearing aid person is a hearing consultant and not an audiologists. To earn a doctorate in audiology (AuD) is not an easy accomplishment. It always amazes me that people are not hesitant to get the best lens implanted when having cataract surgery, but moan and groan about the cost of remediating the second important of our senses. PW degree in Deaf and Hard of Hearing
When I got cataract surgery 3 years ago- the eye doctor/surgeon said I had 2 choices- the standard replacement lens or the premium but he made little effort to explain what the benefit would be. I asked questions but his answers were vague. This is why I like watching Dr. Cliff's videos- he's trying hard to help us understand this complicated topic. I did get the best lens at a significant cost above my Blue X Medicare Advantage plan. I'm pleased with my vision now but don't know if it would have been just as good if I got the standard lens. As for TruHearing, the first practice they sent me to- was a guy running at optician's shop- and the guy also is licensed to sell hearing aids. I went there and he was nice enough to say he's retiring soon so it might be best for me to go to another practice. I didn't know at the time the difference between an hearing instrument technician and an audiologist. From Dr. Cliff's videos, I now understand- so when TruHearing found another practice for me, I asked right away if I'd be seeing an audiologist and the answer was yes. So far, then, I'm concluding that TruHearing may be OK if one uses them with good knowledge of the entire subject. I suppose this is true for whatever new thing we get into. It's not so easy though when you get old and find it tiring to do this research.
Audiologist has recommended either Phonak Virto V50 or Oticon Alta 2 hearing aids as my choice was limited by my insurance company to "basic" models. Both will include telecoils and I plan on adding a streamer out of pocket. Which do you prefer? or can you at least give me the pro-cons of each?
Both are good quality devices with good streaming options. You could easily have success with both as long as they are programmed appropriately. In terms of which one would I pick. I would pick Phonak when it comes to a custom molded device. I feel they are one of the best when it comes to custom products.
I've been buying and wearing hearing aids for over 45 yrs. In that time, most of the aids were purchased from various local Hearing Aid dispensers. If you really want to get taken to the cleaners, go visit Beltone. When Online vendors and large Box stores started selling hearing aids, I gave them a try. The so-called Audiologist that I had been buying from were little more than Salesmen. They would like to convince you that the products available to you online or at the Big Box stores for half the price are inferior or that the fitting is sub-standard. Well, don't believe it. Buying hearing aids from them is kinda like getting sold one of those $3000 Vacuum Cleaners at the Fair, or from a old door to door salesman. With what is available to you in today's world you no longer have to put up with being over charged in order to get effective and affordable help with your hearing.
See if you can qualify for the no deductible policy offered by Humana, which works in partnership with Medicare and with your local state Medicaid that will continue to pay for Humana after you are on Medicare. (As for Dr Cliff, his advice will be more costly for you, in my opinion)
I'm not done treating hearing loss or sharing info about hearing loss and treatment options. I just had to stop being a Managed Care provider with TruHearing.
You are getting an outstanding product at a great price. We have a different business model, so we can offer great service along with your great product at the price TruHearing offers.
Hi Dustin. I plan on doing a "Way to early review" of the Quattro devices next weekend. I've had a set for almost a week now and they're good, but without having Android streaming yet, they are very similar to the 3Ds.
WA WA WA.... Hearing clinics are one of the biggest ripoff in the US... I paid 5 G for hearing aids at Belton. Then I bought some Phonak CROS aids online for $1000.00 eBay aids are far superior...
The problem isn't that hearing clinics are a ripoff. The problem is you went to Beltone. Beltone doesn't even have a CROS option. Why did you buy hearing aids from them at all?
He did not answer because he has no answer. Aside from the need for g****, he also wants to maintain a celebrity lifestyle. See my earlier post for how he is not serving the less fortunate who use their insurance to hear again. Mine has zero deductible and the price for my devices is around $4200.00. If Mr wannabe claims that $300 is not enough, then he does not have a business plan to work with the provider.
@@jeremylancaster2010 What are you people talking about? You cannot run a clinic solely based on TruHearing fitting fees. You will close down in less than 2 months with a mountain of debt. I have a small office with 3 employees. It costs about $500 per day in expenses to keep the doors open and people coming in. That is NOT counting the cost of product. That is just rent, utilities, wages, and advertising. If it is "greed" to own and operate a clinic and barely live a middle class lifestyle, then I guess it is greed. Maybe I should just shut down and get a job working for the government.
"Dr" cliff....you dropped out because you ve never had the patient at heart and youre greedy and the reason seniors get screwed by people like you.ive practiced 42 years and guess what...im still here...let us know when youve taken care of seniors at a honest price in 42 years.
Thank you, Dr Robinson, for your spot-on observation. I just looked up your credentials online and I am impressed you've been serving the folks for over 40 years. You're right about the heart of this new audiologist. He got his license to practice just ONE YEAR before he posted this video! Obviously he has no real experience in running a clinic, and he has no heart in running a profitable business without throwing out the TruHearing folks.
Dr. Cliff I watched several of your videos and they are very informative. If I lived in AZ I would be your patient. As a comment, I have been wearing hearing aids for maybe 7 years. The last ones were Rexton from COSTCO. Basically, I have been happy with their service, and I now need to buy a new set since I lost one of the devices. I researched the new COSTCO hearing aids, and then went to True North Hearing by mistake since I wanted a TruHearing provider that takes BCBS insurance (Medicare Advantage plan). Sadly, I was not happy with the service due to its brevity and discussion of what was available. Upon research, I found the device they gave me was the lowest PHONAK. I now have a hearing appointment with a TruHearing provider. I will be happy to share my experience, but so far, talking to the receptionist, I was treated well. I will be happy to share my experience after my visit.
Thank you Doctor Cliff for sharing your experiences. I am on the market for some new hearing aids, and I think this is the 3rd video of yours I have watched. They are very informative and you are awesome for helping patients understand the industry. Kudos!
Being a business owner, I totally understand.
Well, this explains a lot. I've been going to an ENT/Audiology clinic in a large medical center -- very modern, very well staffed and well equipped. But this year I got Medicare so I went to a TruHearing clinic. It was like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting. The clinic was a teeny one-man shop in a remote strip mall, with equipment that was one generation newer than vacuum tubes. Clearly this audiologist hasn't had any new capital expenses in years, so for him, the TruHearing reimbursements probably DO cover expenses!
Thanks for the information. I just called Truhearing and they set up an appointment for me. Because of this video I can now have a more informed discussion with the provider. I have BC/BS in Michigan and Truhearing is optional. I have tinnitus in both ears and hearingand in one ear is worse than the other ear. If I am going need a high level of after-care then the best choice my be to skip Truhearing. What do you think about that?
I saw an ENT and their Audiologist over a year ago but I couldn't pull the trigger.
I imagine you have to spend a lot of time with some patients that have complicated hearing issues. And for that I commend you!
For those commenting negatively on your expenses and income I think they missed the point. If Truhearing sells something for less money then something has to "give". It is a matter of you get what you pay for.
I have watched many of your videos and they are very helpful. Thanks again.
I'm in Michigan and have TruHearing, although my Medicare Advantage plan is with Humana, not BCBSM (had BCBSM for most of my life, though). Tinnitus and hearing loss in both ears. left worse than right. Pretty happy with the hearing aids; it's been less than a year.
Just getting a hearing aid benefit for my daughter for the first time, and yes Truhearing is the provider through Humana. I feel like I am walking into a trap because the clinic is a "mobile" one that doesn't seem to be able to answer any questions ahead of the appointment I don't want to waste their time, but I also don't want to use up a benefit office call just to find out what the extras may cost. Thanks for the video, it was informative and helpful.
I chose to drive to the recommended clinic. It worked out perfectly.
I love how honest you were about all this and how you expressed how it’s hard being under that kind of pressure, but you stayed true to yourself, I like that. Keep being awesome! :)
This gives me more respect for my local TruHearing provider, since those are the hearing aids I have. Thanks for the insight. Sorry it didn't work out for you.
I recently had exams with Beltone and two hearing clinics that have Audiologists. The clinic I was most impressed with happened to be in the TruHearing network. That is where I purchased my Phonak Paradise P90R hearing aids with a very steep discount. I couldn't have justified spending the high price of those hearing aids without that discount. I feel very fortunate to have found that provider. I do understand your viewpoint though. Love your videos.
As long as you're happy, I'm happy!
I went to a TruHearing provider to assist my husband since I already had hearing aids. During the visit with the provider, he pushed us to purchase the most expensive level of technology for the hearing aids he recommended. When I asked the provider for written material explaining the difference between the various levels of technology so we could review it at home, he said he didn’t have any. That is a big red flag when considering any purchase.
buy Direct and save your self the aggrevation. Great care is not cheap and cheap care is not great.
Another issue not mentioned in the video is that TruHearing pays providers the same regardless of what ZIP code they practice in, and what credentials they have. I think most patients understand that it costs more to do business in a place like Honolulu than it does in Louisville. As long as TruHearing doesn't understand this, patients in expensive metro areas will have a tough time finding a provider that accepts TruHearing who is not lowering their standard of care to serve those patients. Many patients are also willing to accept that it might cost more to be seen by a Doctor of Audiology than a Hearing Instrument Specialist, though obviously working with an "AuD" doesn't guarantee superior results.
Thank you for sharing the true circumstances when our insurance encourages patients to buy into a TruHearing product. Fortunately I have an audiologist who I trust and offers quality care with follow up at no cost and deals with a different hearling aid company that provides their product so that both they and the practitioner can make a reasonable profit at a fair price to the patient. This whole story yet again brings to light that before we can have universal health care for the nation - providers, hospital administrators and folks involved in health care products need to be ethical and honest as they provide patient care.
I am trying to decide whether to use my TruHearing benefits or go with the expensive hearing aids that I can't afford. I really like the hearing facility I am at , but the Hearing Instrument Specialist is kind of convincing me to go with the expensive hearing aids through him and not through TruHearing. It shouldn't be this difficult for something that a lot of people need to have. Thank you for your video.
Just came from my TruHearing fitting attempt. After my "free" hearing test I opted for the Flagship models. They pushed the Oticon Opn S1. I didn't agree as I am an android guy. When I walked in the office I noticed a big display for Oticon aids and the different colors. Mind you, they offer 53 Flagship choices but you will only see displays for Oticon. I asked for the Phonak Audeo M90-r. She said the charger may cost more. It didn't. She said if I went with Oticon I can purchase a clip for Android and d/l the app. I said reviews are not favorable. So I am set to get fitted next week with the Marvel's. Before leaving I asked, "It looked like you were going to use REM?" She said no. They used to but someone came in and said, "No more Real Ear Measurements." She said she is trying to get it back. Right! I might as well be walking around with glasses that are not the correct prescription. Not sure what to do since they don't do REM. Thanks for all your vids Doctor. I feel sad for those that haven't a clue or just chose to settle. “primum non nocere”...first, do no harm.
We are going through the TruHearing pains in our private practice this year! Revenue is way down, private pay sales are almost non existent. I’m feeling like this is almost a Sherman Anti-Trust issue. Would love to hear your thoughts.
Its is 100% they are the manufacturer, and retailer and make the patient captive with there program.
As an audiology clinic with truhearing has been trouble lately as they now call offices throwing there weight around if they get untrue patient complaints due to the number of visits patients demand. its been very emotionally and physically exhausting and we are seriously drained from truhearing as a managed care provider because of the heavy handed tactics of late. Senior citizens require alot of care and time and TruHearing expects you to spend dozens of hours over the course of a year for the one time fee they pay us.
Thank you so much for your informative hearing aid videos. I purchased hearing aids through a clinic that is part of my ENT doctor's practice. They did give me a larger discount than they normally do because I have the TruHearing plan although they are not a part of TruHearing. However with the follow-up care the total cost is $700 higher than TruHearing's cost. I do get unlimited visits with them but TruHearing said that I could save a lot by using their doctors and just pay for individual visits. Now that you explained why you are not with them, I'm thinking that maybe I should just stay with my doctor and pay the higher cost because I will probably get better care, attention, and programming of my hearing aids. It doesn't make sense to pay thousands of dollars for hearing aids and then to try to save money on follow-up care only to find that they have not taken the time or care to program and service the hearing aids correctly.
I agree with your assessment of your situation Donna.
Wish I could get this information in written form instead of RUclips.
My insurance company paid for my Tru Hearing hearing aids. The really bad part is that the person that was helping me get my aids adjusted left the office she was using in a doctor's office and I have no one to help me now. I can't adjust my sound level and I can't hear with the aids in my ears. They were not cheap and I'm considering contacting my insurance company and let them know what has happened to me. So, be careful if you are considering Tru Hearing hearing aids. For now, I'm "out in the cold".
Yeah, unfortunately this is a common problem. Fly by night hearing care providers who join managed care groups only to provide little to no actual care. Consumer beware.
Couldn’t you just go to a new TruHearing Provider?
To Betty and To MsTinaMichelle. You have absolutely no need to worry about a follow up visit with a qualified audiologist because you have the same Humana insurance I have. Just call your local Humana rep (and make sure you keep their phone number on file). They will reschedule a no cost follow up.
As for Dr Wannabe Celebrity's answer who now claims that the clinic is a fly-by-night provider and will not provide enough care, that is absurd. He is the one who only had his license to practice 12 months before he posted this video trashing TruHearing and their providers. And now he wants you to believe that it is a "common problem" and "buyer beware" when it comes to insurance companies and TruHearing.
@@jeremylancaster2010 I presume when you say Dr Wannabe Celebrity you mean Dr. Cliff? He only had his license a year?
I don't know what any of this means but I can definitely say that any of those middle men have a warm place waiting for them down under... and I don't mean Sydney. I am sick and tired of these middle men. I wasted so much money on these "wellness" or "aftercare" plans that would offer discounts. It's bad enough we have to deal with insurance. Newsflash: Insurance companies are out there to make money.
I have a hearing issue. It causes my body to shake. For three years I have suffered. When I had a normal PPO, doctors would smile and say, "come on in... let's sit down and talk." When I was forced onto the ACA, it was like I'd show up and they'd open up a speakeasy grille and ask, "Who is this? You got money? I can give you 15 minutes. Wait here for an hour."
I swear it was night and day. I forgot how good it was when until this year when I had a good PPO with my job. Unfortunately, I lost both the job and the PPO. I've been without care for 3 months. The paperwork to go back on ACA doesn't happen immediately. Now they want me to go onto an ACO.
Doctors are forced to either close shop and join a hospital (which leaves you paying outpatient copays and not clinical visits) or... you seek help online. I've had tinnitus for 30+ years. Since a kid. I ignored it for a long time but now the whole of my right side of my body is either vibrating or the right ear is ringing so loud that I can't hear TV. (this is new in the last month). The right eye twitches, I can feel my eyes rapidly moving when I shut my eyes, my hearing aids for hyperacusis don't work and yeah... it's not greedy doctors. It's the insane idea that everyone needs insurance. No one should NEED insurance. You should be able to manage without it because guess what, we still have no clue what is being charged and it varies. Think of all that extra money you pay in premiums and copays actually going to your illness! For me, it would be... around $15,120 That is what is going to the insurance companies. For one person. Who is saving me money again?
so, what it boils down to is that you get to charge high fees in your area and you're whining about it. It's the patient and TruHearing's fault that you aren't making your margin. Hint: you're supposed to use averaging to assess the overall value of your business. You pinpoint each aspect of your business income, but unless it produces a loss, you're looking at it wrong.
Thanks for your advice on how to run my business. 🙄
as an Optometrist, I understand as well. The doc wants to provide a high-quality experience from beginning to end. He is not the sole provider running the whole show. He has staff, and a large clinic with good equipment, and wants to spend the proper time with his patients to uncover and satisfy all their needs. Good for him. Tru Hearing doesn't allow this.
Im going for a hearing aid evaluation and i was told my insurance will not cover but when i spoke to my insurance, i was told i am 100% covered up to $2,500--Why would the hearing aid evaluation be a separate fee? its a $200 fee.
Was this through TruHearing?
My insurance will pay at least some of the device cost but not the evaluation. That might be your situation but it wasn't fully explained.
Jack Mortimer P
Be mad at your insurance company. Not your audiologist.
@@SS-dm5iy how about being mad at the companies making the hearing aids? Any chance that they are over charging for their products? Seems odd to me that such a tiny thing should cost so much. Sure, it's high tech, but so is my brand new Dell desktop computer that I got for $1,200 loaded with everything.
Spoke to someone yesterday who got hearing aids back in February. She has the same Medicare Advantage plan as I have -- which means she was referred to a TruHearing provider. The person came to her home three times, once to do the measurements, once to fit the aids, and once to make adjustments. I did not ask how much she paid for her Phonak aids, nor do I know which model or technology level she has, but the questions in my mind are (a) how was the hearing aid person able to set up a sufficiently soundproof environment in the client's own home? (b) how likely is it that the REM equipment was transported to the client's home?
Testing: unlikely. REMs: unlikely as well.
Third party is tough one on small business providers but it’s becoming the norm. Nice video.
... Obamacare has nothing to do with this..... Absolutely nothing.
Whats even worse tho, is that you do not even understand that we were having/are having these exact problems before and after "obamacare". Which means you *understand* nothing about how the medical system works and even less about how obamacare works.
But let me give you the 411, obamacare was largely put into place in order to try and help a *REALLY* broken medical system. Pre-existing conditions, lowering costs, helping with corporate owned care, etc., etc. The problem is hmo's ( health management organizations; like doctors offices, x-ray, blood work, etc ) and hospitals had to start working with bigger and bigger insurance companies. These insurance companies ( just like TruHearing ) would force these hmo's and hospitals to work within their payment systems... sometimes to the tune of 90% or more off to visits and procedure's... that is not an exaggeration. If the hospitals refused to work with these big insurance companies they would loose thousands+ patients, and they cannot afford that. But they also cannot afford to only make 10% of what it costs per visit/procedure. So the hmo's and hospitals had to raise prices... dramatically raise prices. It has gotten so bad that a procedure like putting an I.V. and a bag of saline solution on a patient costs 167$+... when in actuality it costs the hospital or doctor less than a dollar in cost. Doctors visits, which I remember in the 80's costing like 50$ per visit... now that's a cheap co-pay for insurance. In Japan it costs around 300ish dollars for an MRI scan. In America its anywhere from 1000 to 4000..........
The main reason obamacare "seems" to cost more now is that it forces insurance companies to take those with pre-existing conditions. Before the insurance companies refused anyone with them. So they raised their prices, but *make no mistake* these were what the prices were always like, the insurance companies were just playing a shell game with everyone and especially healthy people.
The only way to fix this is to either get rid of all insurance companies and let the market eventually decide ( tho a lot of people will most likely die ). Another way is to set prices and stop insurance companies from asking for more than 20 to 30 percent off. So that if we choose we can try to pay without insurance and not lose the shirt off our backs. And lastly, is a single payer system.
Option one will not work because everyone will scream bloody murder about prices and people dying, option 2 will not work because I do not see our government being able to actually set prices reasonably when things are already this bad and both dems and reps are in their pockets... so that leaves option 3 as the only pragmatic choice, and we can most definitely pay for it, because as the only insurance company we can lower costs and god forbid we take some money from the military to do it as well... we already spend more on the military than the top 3 other countries combined.
I really hope you learned something.
Samalanderable I’m sorry you had to type all that over a sarcastic remark. But, it was very nice of you. This industry is going through what eye care did years ago. Third party’s like hearUSA and true hearing use high pressure sales and puts the providers in the hot seat. But, it’s the future and providers will have tough choice to accept it or not.
@@sirsquatch2347 My apologies then~ It is hard to detect sarcasm on the internet. And it seems its even harder for me not to get passionate over things I care about.
@@Samalanderable What your opinion on Truehearing and Hear.com? Personally, I don't like taking Hear.com and am thinking about dropping them due to high pressure sales.
And if you like your doctor you can keep your doctor . . . PERIOD, Oh and the average family will save $2500 per year. Yeah, tell us more about Obamacare
Understand…
Hey Dr. Cliff! This is an unrelated question. I’m currently studying to get my hearing aid dispensing license. I was just wondering if you use a PC-based audiometer or a stand-alone one to conduct your hearing tests. Which do you recommend? Also, which software do you use to perform real ear measurements? Thanks
Yes, I use Otometrics equipment for audiometry and REM.
When they adjust it bad you have to do it again and pay another $ 65.00! Try another manufactur product of hearing aid.
In your experience, did you find that Tru-hearing's available devices were of lesser quality than others you might otherwise have prescribed? My insurance plan only allowed Resound aids and I bought the Flyte model which was the upgraded model with a remote, but I haven't noticed a great improvement in my hearing.
TruHearing basically offers most of the top hearing aid brands. The same ones you can find in almost any hearing clinic. The Flyte models aren't my favorite because they are based on only one model of hearing aids which may not be the best for a particular patient. There are a variety of factors that will dictate how much benefit you receive from hearing aids, but the biggest factor is usually how they are programmed.
The Truhearing branded hearing aids are made by Signia. Truhearing also carries many other hearing aid brands.
@@a1smith2468 Did you happen to check the date of the video and the date of the post? 4 years ago what I said was true, now they provide Sigma.
I have 8 friends that have gotten hearing aids through Trurhearing. They have told me that among them, not a one has had a follow up visit that lasted more than 25 minutes at most. The only exception to those is a friend who had a trauma to their ear and had to have a revaluation of their hearing loss in that ear. If $65 for an average of around 20 minutes is not enough then maybe your business is over extended financially and you might want to address that. I get cost vs. Time and all that. I ran a business for several years. While you strike me as a medical professional with your patients care in the foreground, the medical professions give to excuse of "cost vs. reducing the level of care" is a crutch. If medical professionals honored the oaths they take then the amount of money involved should have zero effect on the amount of time or care given to a patient. I have a friend who is a real doctor with a specialty in virology. He shares that same view. He told me and my wife that he was practically forced out of medical school because of his viewpoint. He said one of things that is driven into your head constantly is this bogus concept of "cost vs. Level of patient care". This thinking is in direct violation of the hippocratic oath. Plain and simple.
Well if we go back ten years ago, none of that is an issue. The insurance writes a check for what they cover, and you get the care you need that has already been figured out. The problem is they are completely flipping the way we do business on its head. An average clinic costs about $400-$500 per day to operate. I fit 13 new hearing aid in April (pretty bad month, but it has been like this all year in 2022). The fitting fee most of the time hovers around $300-$400 per instrument. That means you have to fit a hearing aid every single day and do quite a few paid services to break even. That just isn't realistic.
Sorry, I can't just "break even". I've 4 people at home that need a roof over the head and food on the table. I've got personal bills too, not just the clinic.
@@SS-dm5iy And while I understand all this it still boils down to a business bei g overextended on their expenses, and laying the blame for so much on the insurance industry. Doctors and the AMA are just as much to blame for the price issues in this country as the insurance companies are. I have 3 close friends who have all been to medical school and told me all about the stupidity that is the AMA and the way things are done and decided. None of this justifies something that costs around $1500 for a good pair costing 3 to 4 times that amount at an audiologists office just because they have "expenses" that they helped create and could mitigate by drawing a line in the sand and fircing change in a corrupt industry and in a corrupt agency like the AMA.
I ran a multimillion dollar business for 20 years with an average 150 employees at any given time. I understand the costs of just having the lights on and tge doors open, but I also understand that there are costs that can be avoided.
Every aspect of the medical world today likes to lay the blame on insurance companies and other scapegoats. The real problem is the entire medical community. The schools, the teachers, the hospitals, the AMA, .... everything to do with it. It's become a monster of its own creation and now the monster wants to blame everyone but itself.
@@shawnwilt7196 So what cost can be avoided? Where am I overextended? My receptionist makes about $17 an hour. I used to spend about $10,000 a month in advertising. I have cut back to about $2,000. We aren't overextended. The insurance companies and middle men and manufacturers have aligned to make the bulk of the money on these "managed care" deals, and they throw us a few hundred dollars. Where can we cut back? I would need to fit 40 new hearing aids a month to make a middle class living. The most I have ever fit in my 17 year career in a month is like 35.
I will be getting my first 2 hearing aids through Humana Tru hearing . Do I have to pay for follow up visits or is that covered with Humana?
I applaud you standing up for the care your customers deserve. I hate what our healthcare has become, all about the $$$$$. These insurance companies charge exorbitant fees and yet they want to send you to cheap facilities. Keep up the great videos.
Perhaps the money thing is a problem for him per his story. That said, it sounds like the usual I can't make enough money to survive (takes a lot of money to be rich).
I hope Tru Hearing works for my wife, we will find out today as her HUMANA Advantage Insurance offers a Co-Pay of $395 and $595 for two different hearing aids thru Tru-Hearing. Provided thru Bridgewater in Knoxville. I might add recommended by U of TN Hearing and Search department where she had a test and diagnosis. I might add that the DR of Audiology Professor spent time discussing aids, needs of patient, and costs VS needs. I will just say, many features that drive costs up to $1000s per aid are not justified in my opinion.
Ouch, tough crowd. None the less, I hope things work out for your wife. The low-cost devices from TruHearing are pretty good ones. I'm glad you were able to receive good information from the subsidized audiologists at the U of TN department. They are outstanding at what they do.
Paul, that is great for your wife...but not all people's hearing loss is the same. Not only do you have to deal with the actual loss of hearing, but also with things like tinnitus, and speech discrimination (although they have a new term for it now, but I can't remember what it is) Not everyone will benefit from low cost hearing aids. They would be more or less useless for someone like myself who has severe to profound hearing loss and 50% speech discrimination in one ear and 30% in the other. (and 24/7 tinnitus, but I don't even notice it anymore unless the "tone" changes) Every little bit of added clarity/fidelity goes a long way in helping me to understand what is being said...but even with the best, I know I will always struggle understanding speech, but every little added bit of technology helps.
@@suzanneabad3539 The hearing aids offered in the TruHearing plan are not low cost devices by any stretch. Signia 5 and 7's are some of the best hearing aids made. They typically sell at high prices because of all the features.
This sounds almost exactly what my dad’s insurance is offering. I had to stop him from buying Nanos off of the internet because he can’t wait one more week for his appointment. He had the hearing test at my house over the phone. This is the only way we can afford any kind of decent hearing aides. I told my brother that the Nanos sounded like a great deal but after doing a little research I’ve talked them into waiting and paying just a little bit more. This is his only way. My mom, dad, and our whole family are so glad to finally get something done for him with this insurance. Otherwise he would be so depressed as he has been for the past two years. I can’t stand to see him like this any more. I want to buy him some but I’m out of work at the moment as technology took over my job of a medical transcriptions for the past thirty years. Ugh. At least it lasted until my daughter went to college. Another big expense why I can’t afford to pay a big price. I just hope they have something good for him and we are doing the right thing. I would not let my brother order those others.
"That said, it sounds like the usual I can't make enough money to survive (takes a lot of money to be rich). "
Reminds me of a school teacher friend, member of a powerful labor union, making $80 K/yr. Way more than I've ever made.
I had a good experience with my mobile TruHearing rep. Spent $800 for a pair of RIC device
So far so good.
I’m glad to see this. I’ve been really worried about my dad. He is in a very low fixed income and is 83. He has severe hearing loss and has been going through one hearing amplifier after another from Walgreens five years now, ever since his expensive pair got so old and broke. His audiologist told him that to get another pair like he had equally as good it would cost him $6000. My parents were devastated. Since my dad got Parkinson’s it’s been very rough. We now have gotten him on a more better insurance plan Humana that provides hearing coverage from Truhearing. So far they have been very, very nice. It’s all mobile so far which is okay with us as they don’t like to get out. He took a test and has an appointment next Tuesday. He’s so desperate because my brother is living with them at the moment and is going crazy and is impatient with him having the TV turned all the way up. My brother lost his home in hurricane Laura and is staying with my parents. They called me asking me about trying to get these other hearing aides on line called Nanos and the price is even lower but I do not trust them. He’s trying to jump the gun and get them even sooner and save him more money. They were pushing me to get them for him but I don’t want to back down and I still want to go through the insurance and Truhearing. For my dad, it’s his ONLY choice. I don’t have any idea what they mean about having the standard plan versus superior. I have no idea what choices they have. I know that he hates the over the ear kind and they only like the battery kind that aren’t rechargeable. They are old school and are tired of all of the wires everywhere from these cheap amplifier rechargeable ones that he is constantly having to purchase at least once a month. They drive them nuts. They loved his old ones that took regular batteries that would last a good while. I will look the RIC device up for 800. That would be so great if it would work for him. Of course it’s whatever they recommend to him for his hearing. Thank you. Any input or any updates on these would be awesome. I’m so worried about getting him something that won’t work in six months or not doing the right thing for him.
@@hopekounter8488 mine came with a years supply of batteries. Had them almost a year and it has changed my life for the better. The over the ear unit is small and easy to wear.
Good luck
To Hope and To Bob. Thank you for your testimonials. I too have the same Humana plan with no deductible. And the audiologist that I saw was sharp as a tack.
The original wannabe celebrity audiologist who posted this video (Dr C), had just got his license 12 months before he came here to rip apart TruHearing. He's a youngster who thinks he is entitled. But you already know that, so enjoy the harvest and let sourpuss reap what he has sowed.
My Advantage Care Plan only accepts TruHearing. There is an office at the Rochester Hearing and Speech Center here in Rochester, NY. Their website says they have been around for 97 years. Do you think my odds of getting a GOOD fitting for A hearing aid is maybe a little better than average.? (I already have a recent and full eval. from University of Rochester; they have hearing aids but while my insurance will accept the doctor, they won't accept the hearing aids.)
I have no idea. Hopefully they have updated their equipment and continuing education since they opened. 😂
@@DrCliffAuD I hope so too, thanks for the quick response
We have Humana Advantage plan.. we had to go through TruHearing. They said there was a $700 and a $1000 model but of course we needed the $1000 model in each ear. If you want it rechargeable, add another $150 for the charger. Don't tell me they aren't making money. They are.
@@bobbiebarker2047 it is very clear that you have no idea how Truhearing really works for providers.
bray721 second agoBobby Barker. Rather uninformed and simplistic comment. Hearing aids WAY WAY overpriced? What is your support. It IS a competitive market which tends to control pricing. Also what is your basis for suggesting $65 is an adequate fee? Do you know the costs of doing this particular business. And what is the inference re: breaking even? What business wants to BREAK EVEN? Seems like you might not have any experience running a business profitably.
I have watched hours of your videos for education as to see what is to come..I recently retired from a high noise job after 41 yrs..I know my hearing is not good, I have been told I have a moderate loss. Even with ear plugs over the years my company started designated some work areas as dual protect areas, nice to know after years of working around screaming equipment..I will have to check my insurance & see if I have any coverage for hearing aides. I am now in NW Phoenix & would like to do business with you as you know your stuff..so what would you say I should expect to pay, nothing over the top, nothing overly fancy, might like inter-ear type if possible? Thanks, Ken
Hey Ken. Call my clinic on Monday and talk to Sarah. We can verify your insurance for you and it will give me a better idea of what you would expect to pay. 623-777-5943.
Doctor Cliff, AuD I wish you were in Arkansas...I have gone to Graham Hearing and they perform real time Hearing with every one of their patients who they fit for Hearing Aids and I wouldn’t have known about that to ask if your videos were never made so thank you Dr. Cliff,AuD
Say something negative about Truhearing and Truhearing customers without actually saying something negative.
So you say that $65 appointment fee is not enough for you to make money?? That's sounds pretty decent to me. What would be an amount you'd need to charge to "break even" We all know that hearing aids are WAY WAY overpriced. So for every customer you can sell to you will more than just break even.. it's a cash cow. And happy customers bring other customers or may or may not have TueHearing. But if you have your own Customer Base then that's fine. Another problem we ran into is that if you sell a $1000 hearing aide to a client and they die a few months later.. Then you will not buy it back. Why not? Why can't there be a buy back program.. Even if you only gave the spouse $100 back you might be able to resell those same hearing aids (reprogrammed of course) or a used fee of say $700 but you'd still be making money. it's a Cash Cow.
I was thinking the same thing with my dental implant. Someone else could use that when I die. But seriously, I will not share my specific clinic costs, but my cost of operation is over double the reimbursement rate from TruHearing. I have considered a buyback program if a patient passes away. Just need to figure out the logistics of doing this. You looking for a job?
Bobby Barker. Rather uninformed and simplistic comment. Hearing aids WAY WAY overpriced? What is your support. It IS a competitive market which tends to control pricing. Also what is your basis for suggesting $65 is an adequate fee? Do you know the costs of doing this particular business. And what is the inference re: breaking even? What business wants to BREAK EVEN? Seems like you might not have any experience running a business profitably.
Always beware when the hearing aid person is a hearing consultant and not an audiologists. To earn a doctorate in audiology (AuD) is not an easy accomplishment. It always amazes me that people are not hesitant to get the best lens implanted when having cataract surgery, but moan and groan about the cost of remediating the second important of our senses. PW degree in Deaf and Hard of Hearing
When I got cataract surgery 3 years ago- the eye doctor/surgeon said I had 2 choices- the standard replacement lens or the premium but he made little effort to explain what the benefit would be. I asked questions but his answers were vague. This is why I like watching Dr. Cliff's videos- he's trying hard to help us understand this complicated topic. I did get the best lens at a significant cost above my Blue X Medicare Advantage plan. I'm pleased with my vision now but don't know if it would have been just as good if I got the standard lens. As for TruHearing, the first practice they sent me to- was a guy running at optician's shop- and the guy also is licensed to sell hearing aids. I went there and he was nice enough to say he's retiring soon so it might be best for me to go to another practice. I didn't know at the time the difference between an hearing instrument technician and an audiologist. From Dr. Cliff's videos, I now understand- so when TruHearing found another practice for me, I asked right away if I'd be seeing an audiologist and the answer was yes. So far, then, I'm concluding that TruHearing may be OK if one uses them with good knowledge of the entire subject. I suppose this is true for whatever new thing we get into. It's not so easy though when you get old and find it tiring to do this research.
I am done with TruHearing. You will not get a good program. I just realized, they don't do explanations.
Audiologist has recommended either Phonak Virto V50 or Oticon Alta 2 hearing aids as my choice was limited by my insurance company to "basic" models. Both will include telecoils and I plan on adding a streamer out of pocket. Which do you prefer? or can you at least give me the pro-cons of each?
Both are good quality devices with good streaming options. You could easily have success with both as long as they are programmed appropriately. In terms of which one would I pick. I would pick Phonak when it comes to a custom molded device. I feel they are one of the best when it comes to custom products.
Joshua, my insurance won't cover those
Insurance companies go to great lengths to be sure it's never their day in the barrel!
Doctor is it normal in your patients to develop tinnitus after 4 years from a ear surgery?
As always, it depends.
I've been buying and wearing hearing aids for over 45 yrs. In that time, most of the aids were purchased from various local Hearing Aid dispensers. If you really want to get taken to the cleaners, go visit Beltone. When Online vendors and large Box stores started selling hearing aids, I gave them a try. The so-called Audiologist that I had been buying from were little more than Salesmen. They would like to convince you that the products available to you online or at the Big Box stores for half the price are inferior or that the fitting is sub-standard. Well, don't believe it. Buying hearing aids from them is kinda like getting sold one of those $3000 Vacuum Cleaners at the Fair, or from a old door to door salesman. With what is available to you in today's world you no longer have to put up with being over charged in order to get effective and affordable help with your hearing.
Who should I go to if I'm on Medicare?
Thanks for the advice!
What are you looking to get?
@@DrCliffAuD hearing aids
See if you can qualify for the no deductible policy offered by Humana, which works in partnership with Medicare and with your local state Medicaid that will continue to pay for Humana after you are on Medicare. (As for Dr Cliff, his advice will be more costly for you, in my opinion)
What why? your research helped a lot of people out.
I'm not done treating hearing loss or sharing info about hearing loss and treatment options. I just had to stop being a Managed Care provider with TruHearing.
I'm a GM retiree, and we just got switched to TruHearing, so this is good to know.
Sorry to hear that.
You are getting an outstanding product at a great price. We have a different business model, so we can offer great service along with your great product at the price TruHearing offers.
Can you do a review of the new resound hearing aids?
Hi Dustin. I plan on doing a "Way to early review" of the Quattro devices next weekend. I've had a set for almost a week now and they're good, but without having Android streaming yet, they are very similar to the 3Ds.
WA WA WA.... Hearing clinics are one of the biggest ripoff in the US... I paid 5 G for hearing aids at Belton. Then I bought some Phonak CROS aids online for $1000.00 eBay aids are far superior...
The problem isn't that hearing clinics are a ripoff. The problem is you went to Beltone. Beltone doesn't even have a CROS option. Why did you buy hearing aids from them at all?
You get what you pay for.
...
You left because you couldn't adapt to TruHearing and the need for greed.👂Did you have any Business Plan?
He did not answer because he has no answer. Aside from the need for g****, he also wants to maintain a celebrity lifestyle. See my earlier post for how he is not serving the less fortunate who use their insurance to hear again. Mine has zero deductible and the price for my devices is around $4200.00. If Mr wannabe claims that $300 is not enough, then he does not have a business plan to work with the provider.
@@jeremylancaster2010 What are you people talking about? You cannot run a clinic solely based on TruHearing fitting fees. You will close down in less than 2 months with a mountain of debt. I have a small office with 3 employees. It costs about $500 per day in expenses to keep the doors open and people coming in. That is NOT counting the cost of product. That is just rent, utilities, wages, and advertising.
If it is "greed" to own and operate a clinic and barely live a middle class lifestyle, then I guess it is greed. Maybe I should just shut down and get a job working for the government.
SOO true
"Dr" cliff....you dropped out because you ve never had the patient at heart and youre greedy and the reason seniors get screwed by people like you.ive practiced 42 years and guess what...im still here...let us know when youve taken care of seniors at a honest price in 42 years.
"Robinson".....are you for real?
Thank you, Dr Robinson, for your spot-on observation. I just looked up your credentials online and I am impressed you've been serving the folks for over 40 years.
You're right about the heart of this new audiologist. He got his license to practice just ONE YEAR before he posted this video! Obviously he has no real experience in running a clinic, and he has no heart in running a profitable business without throwing out the TruHearing folks.
Dr. Cliff
I watched several of your videos and they are very informative. If I lived in AZ I would be your patient.
As a comment, I have been wearing hearing aids for maybe 7 years. The last ones were Rexton from COSTCO. Basically, I have been happy with their service, and I now need to buy a new set since I lost one of the devices.
I researched the new COSTCO hearing aids, and then went to True North Hearing by mistake since I wanted a TruHearing provider that takes BCBS insurance (Medicare Advantage plan). Sadly, I was not happy with the service due to its brevity and discussion of what was available. Upon research, I found the device they gave me was the lowest PHONAK. I now have a hearing appointment with a TruHearing provider. I will be happy to share my experience, but so far, talking to the receptionist, I was treated well. I will be happy to share my experience after my visit.
Zzzzzzz
Just another example of Obama Care and government intervention. Let the free market dictate costs!
This predates Obama care which you seem to know nothing about.
Tru-hearing isn't a government program...
Truhearing is now owned by Sivantos / Signia. They are private and have nothing to do with Obamacare or government intervention.
That's now what this is about...........They're a private company.
This has nothing to do with Obama care, do your homework, you'll be better for it.