Audiological Testing Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center offers the newest, most technologically advanced hearing aids available. Major brands are available in a variety of styles and sound quality. In-the-ear, behind-the-ear, canal, completely-in-the-canal, and open fit technology are available in all levels of digital sound. What does the hearing aid package include? Highest quality care by a licensed Audiologist Hearing aid evaluation Hearing aid and hearing aid fitting Orientation and training 2-week and 6-week follow up visits Communication training class 11-month post-warranty check 60 free batteries per hearing aid * Patients who receive a hearing aid evaluation from BHSC, but do not purchase a hearing aid will be charged for the evaluation. Discounts BHSC offers special savings to members of Independent Health and the Automobile Association of America. You can also save when you purchase a pair of hearing aids. We will give you the one discount that will provide you with the greatest savings. Trial Period A 45-day trial period is provided with all hearing aids to offer clients the opportunity to use them at home, work, school and in social situations. If, at the end of the trial period, a client chooses not to keep the aid, it may be returned in good condition for a refund (less the costs that were incurred for visits and ear mold impressions). Medical Clearance The FDA requires that clearance from a physician be obtained prior to a hearing aid fitting. Repair Service If a problem develops with a hearing aid, clients may contact the Center for a service appointment. Many repairs can be made right at the Center. Every effort will be made to provide a loaner hearing aid if the aid must be sent out for repair. Warranty All hearing aids dispensed at the Center are covered by a manufacturer's warranty for either one or two years. Extended warranty plans are also available. Adjusting to Amplification The process of adjusting to amplification begins with a hearing aid fitting, but sometimes does not end there. Training and counseling are available to make a smooth adjustment to new listening environments. Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center offers a group session for adult hearing aid users. The Adjusting to Amplification class addresses the following topics: Adjusting to hearing aid use Expectations from a hearing aid Basic communication strategies Coping with difficult listening situations Facilitating communication with others What others can do to help the hearing impaired individual Assistive listening devices Individual therapy is also available for those needing to focus on a specific skill. If you purchased a hearing aid through BHSC's Hearing Aid Dispensing Program, the Adjusting to Amplification Group Session is offered at no charge. If you purchased your hearing aid elsewhere, there is a small fee for the session. Hearing loss and aural rehabilitation may be made easier when family members are involved. You are welcome to bring a family member or a person you think may be helpful in your adaptation to hearing aids at no charge. Speechreading Classes Most people with a hearing loss already speechread naturally to some extent. They begin to use their eyes to help their ears understand. You can improve your natural speechreading abilities by attending classes which will teach you to associate different lip shapes with particular sounds. You will also be taught to look at the speaker's expressions, gestures, posture and body language. Educational Seminar Series BHSC offers classes in various topics related to hearing aids and hearing. These classes are offered at no charge and include such topics as Hearing Loss and Hearing Aid Advances: What's Best for Me? and Advances in Tinnitus Management. For more information on educational seminars, call 716-885-8318 or email us at