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\u201cThe big concern is whether consumers will be able to receive the level of assistance necessary to meet their needs depending on their degree of hearing loss,\u201d says Rachel-Ann Smith, audiology clinic director at the 溏心vlog免费B站\u2019s Speech and Hearing Centers<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Smith welcomed the new rule and the access it will provide for those people who otherwise may go without, but cautioned consumers against going it alone without first having a good assessment of what their needs might be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhen we talk about \u2018perceived\u2019 mild to moderate hearing loss, we are talking about an individual\u2019s own perception of their ability to hear. Hearing loss most often occurs gradually so people acclimate \u2013 but it may be that what someone perceives as a mild to moderate hearing loss is actually quite a severe hearing loss.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Smith recommends getting your hearing tested with an audiologist to determine whether a hearing device is right for you. Most health insurance plans cover an annual hearing test and diagnostic evaluation \u2013 though some may require a referral.<\/p>\n\n\n\n She noted that certain devices coming on the market may remain somewhat costly while those on the lower end of the cost spectrum may function primarily as amplifiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cMost of these products are likely to provide some level of relief \u2013 but it\u2019s also possible to have an untreated medical problem that if treated may clear up your issue. Bottom line \u2013 to be better informed, it\u2019s smart to visit a professional,\u201d said Smith. \u201cPart of our job as audiologists is not only to test your hearing but also to provide counseling as to how to manage a hearing loss and what products can help \u2013 so we can help point out what will work best for you, what might be a waste of money and how to make an educated purchase.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n 溏心vlog免费B站\u2019s Speech and Hearing Centers have locations in Kingston\u2019s Independence Square at 25 West Independence Way, just off Kingstown Road, and in Pawtucket\u2019s Independence Square Foundation at 500 Prospect Street. They offer speech and language services for adults and children. The Audiology Clinic<\/a> offers the full range of adult and pediatric hearing exam services and testing and works with patients to teach communication strategies and tailor treatment, including offering device counseling as necessary, for adults. The Centers also offer special programs, ongoing support and therapy groups that are open to the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Centers offer competitive pricing and accept all major insurance and Medicaid. They also work in partnership with the Ocean State Center for Independent Living to provide low cost hearing aids to those in need through the Gift of Hearing Program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n