No problem with the length of your response. It helps to be able to expound and explain!

Your audiology experience is interesting. It is also quite common. I'm sorry to have to surmise that the old saying "time is money" is part of a big problem. People who sell hearing aids do not have or take time to do the counseling many people need. The industry is also a bit suspect as it is often very brand oriented. Also commission oriented. That is changing in some ways, which is a good thing.

Good to know you've changed audiologists. I am surprised that with the issues you've had in the past that custom ear molds were not provided. While domes work for easy fitting and are satisfactory to many who use them, ear molds should be a step up for you. Let us know.