Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that hearing health can raise many questions. Below you will find answers to the most common inquiries we receive. If you don’t see your question here, please contact us directly. We're here to help.
General Questions
What services does Chicago Hearing Services provide?
We offer comprehensive hearing healthcare, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, tinnitus evaluations and treatments, and custom hearing protection.
Do I need a referral to see an audiologist?
In most cases, you do not need a referral. However, some insurance providers may require one. We recommend checking with your insurance company or contacting us for assistance.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring any hearing aids or devices you use, and relevant medical records. If possible, bring a family member or friend for support and assistance during the consultation.
Where are you located?
We are located at 3825 N Central Ave, Chicago, IL 60634. Free parking is available. You can get directions to our office here.
Appointments & Insurance
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can request an appointment online or call our office directly. We will work with you to find a time that fits your schedule.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we work with a variety of insurance providers. Our team will verify your benefits and help you understand coverage details before your appointment. View insurance options. We do not accept Medicaid or any medicaid commercial plans.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We kindly ask for 24 hours’ notice if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. This helps us serve all our patients more efficiently.
xHearing Loss & Hearing Aids
How do we hear?
Hearing is the most complicated and complex sensory system in the body. This video will show you how you hear.
How do I know if I have hearing loss?
Signs include frequently asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, and feeling like people are mumbling. A professional hearing evaluation is the best way to assess hearing loss.
Are all hearing aids the same?
Not all hearing aids are alike. They are designed to accommodate a range of different listening environments. What works well for one person, may not be the solution for another. There are also several different styles available:
- In-the-Ear (ITE)
- In-the-Canal (ITC)
- Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)
- Receiver in the Canal (RIC)
- Behind the Ear (BTE)
Learn more on our Hearing Devices 101 page
How much do hearing aids cost?
Much like all technology devices, hearing aid costs are dependent upon your individual needs. Chicago Hearing Services offers several different hearing aids to meet your budget, your needs, and your lifestyle. Chicago Hearing Services also has different service plans available to best suit your needs and budget as well. It is important to meet with our doctors to discuss your options.
Are hearing aids covered by insurance?
Some insurance plans offer partial coverage for hearing aids. Our team will assist you in understanding your benefits and exploring financing or payment options if needed.
Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for hearing aids?
Yes. Hearing aids, batteries, and related services are qualified medical expenses under most Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
Does Chicago Hearing Services carry batteries?
Yes, we sell proline batteries, which last longer compared to store bought batteries. You can also be assured that they are the proper size so there are no intermittent issues. Need a battery? Please contact us to order and we can even mail them to you at no additional charge!
Do I need two hearing aids?
In most cases, yes. Your brain gathers information from both ears and helps you understand speech. Having two hearing aids helps you understand speech more easily, reduces your hearing effort in background noise, and helps to localize sounds. The audiologist will recommend what is best for you based on your hearing loss.
How often should hearing aids be maintained or cleaned?
Hearing aids should be cleaned daily and checked regularly for earwax or moisture. We recommend semi-annual or annual professional check-ups – this allows our Doctors of Audiology to get a full picture of your hearing and ensure everything is functioning properly to maximize any changes in hearing.
Are there other strategies I can use to hear better in difficult situations?
Yes, hearing aids are aids to help you hear better, but they do not fully restore your hearing. Using these communication tips, you and your significant others will be able to communicate more effectively.
Does it take time to get adjusted to hearing aids?
Yes. Most people need an adjustment period of up to two months before becoming acclimated to — and receiving the full benefit of — wearing their hearing aids. Remember, Chicago Hearing Services is there to help. Do not be afraid to call or visit to discuss your concerns. A. Be realistic. Remember that your hearing loss has been gradual; over the years you have lost the ability to hear certain sounds in the speech spectrum and normal sounds of the environment, such as traffic and wind noise, the hum of machinery and other background noises. B. Practice. When you begin to wear hearing aids, these sounds will be restored but your brain will need practice and reeducation in order to selectively focus on and filter sounds. Some sounds may even startle you at first. Know that your brain will acclimate to these sounds again over time. C. Be patient. It takes time to adapt to hearing aids. Wear them as much as possible even when doing quiet activities.
Tinnitus
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound (like ringing or buzzing) without an external source. It is often linked to hearing loss, noise exposure, or other underlying health conditions.
Can tinnitus be treated?
While there is no universal cure, many treatment options can help manage symptoms, such as sound therapy, lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Lenire. Learn more about tinnitus treatment options.
What is Lenire and how does it help with tinnitus?
Lenire is the only FDA-approved device that combines sound and tongue stimulation to retrain the brain’s response to tinnitus. It’s a safe, non-invasive treatment offered under the care of our audiologists. Learn more on our Lenire page.
Custom Hearing Protection
Do you offer custom earplugs or musician monitors?
Yes. We provide custom-molded earplugs for musicians, swimmers, hunters, and individuals exposed to high noise levels. These offer superior fit and protection compared to over-the-counter options.
Additional Questions?
Still have questions? Please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We're here to support your hearing health journey.
