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@julieo4

I'm curious to know what state you live in, if in the USA? All state regulations require a trial period, most often 30 days. There are a few states that have 60 day trial periods. It takes time to adjust to wearing hearing aids.They should all allow enough time to really serve as a 'trial' period.

There are some options you should insist they include. For example, a telecoil, which adds no cost to a hearing aid, can connect you to assistive tech in performing arts centers, theaters, meeting rooms, etc. BlueTooth is great for connecting with your cell phone, etc, but doesn't replace telecoil. You won't know how much these features can do for you unless you have the opportunity to experiment with them.

Insurance is another issue. I have never had insurance that covered hearing aids. If you do have it, you are fortunate. Medicare does NOT cover them. A pair of good quality hearing aids can range from $1400 at Costco, to $8000 elsewhere. It's important to have a well qualified fitter, which is where the audiologists come in. It's unfortunate that it's so confusing.

ReSound is a good brand. Still, as with all hearing aids, much depends on how well they are adjusted to your particular hearing loss. I look forward to hearing how this goes for you.

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Replies to "I'm curious to know what state you live in, if in the USA? All state regulations..."

Julie,
I live in New York state. This is great info, thank you so much!

I’m too young for Medicare but my husband has MVP insurance through his employer and it appears from our plan info that hearing aids are covered. I have no idea yet whether I’m only eligible for the most basic models or what. I’m hoping and assuming I can pay the difference to get something better.

Hi again, Julie. I went for my HA consult with the new audiologist today. I ended up selecting Phonak Paradise P90 HAs, in part because I can pair them with my iMac for Zoom calls (and not just pair them with my iPhone) but also because I prefer working with an app over "set it and forget it." I love how light-weight they are and I selected the chestnut color that nearly matches my hair so they will be very unobtrusive.

The audiologist said the HAs are "covered in full" by our insurance which was a shocking, but welcome, development. The trial period here is 45 days. I forgot to ask about telecoil although Google searching indicates it does have it.

I consider myself sound-sensitive so we'll see how it goes. Thank you again for your help and support!