Why Buying Hearing aids Abroad is a Bad Idea.
I have several patients that still have close ties to their home countries. Even though they only return to their home countries for a month or two every year or so, they often think that purchasing their hearing aids abroad is a good idea. It isn’t.
Yes, you will pay less for your hearing aids in the beginning. Just remember, you are very far away if you need repairs, routine maintenance or programming. Since you didn’t purchase your hearing aids from your American audiologist, you are looking at charges for maintenance, repairs, and programming. Additionally, it takes at least a month to adjust to hearing aids with multiple visits to your audiologist. This is difficult if you purchase your hearing aids and leave the country. You have no recourse.
Most individuals who purchase aids in other countries, are shocked when the United States Company charges for services that were included in the factory warranty. XYZ hearing aid manufacturer in Lithuania is a separate company from XYZ hearing aids USA. They may be the same hearing aids, but we may not be able to program them or have them serviced for you.
So, unless you spend at least 6 months every year in a different country, it does not make good sense to purchase your hearing aids there.
If you have questions, give us a call at 727-323-2471.
Susan E. Terry, Au.D., F-AAA
Doctor of Audiology
Board Certified
P.S. We are here to help, if you have any questions about your hearing feel free to give us a call at 727-323-2471.