Costco Hearing Aids Complaints
The majority of Costco Hearing Center and hearing aid reviews are mixed with many stores receiving positive reviews and ratings, but other stores having less than stellar ratings among customers. Customers who wrote reviews on ConsumerAffairs gave Costco Hearing Centers a cumulative score of just under three out of five stars. The majority of complaints revolve around store location, appointment times or trouble with some hearing aid models. The Better Business Bureau gives Costco Corporate an A+ rating.
Will Costco Take Insurance
Costco doesnt accept insurance for hearing aids. Hearing aids arent usually covered by health insurance plans, including original Medicare.
If you have an insurance plan that covers hearing aids, you can still shop at Costco. Youll have to submit an invoice to your insurer for reimbursement, after payment.
Resound Hearing Aid Devices
At Costco center, there are two hearing devices from ReSound, i.e., ReSound Preza and ReSound Vida. The two devices are available in behind-the-ear, custom-in-the-ear, and receiver-in-the-canal models. Some of the features and accessories available for ReSound hearing aid devices include:
- Push-button control
- Phone Clip for streaming phones directly using the hearing aid
- Wireless accessories such as Micro Mic and Multi Mic remote microphones allow wireless audio connection between the hearing aid device and their smart gadgets.
You May Like: What Is The Blood Test Name For Hiv
The Trouble With Labels
But wait, arent OTC hearing aids already for sale? Companies such as Bose, Eargo, and Lively are using the term hearing aid to describe products they sell directly on their websites, and a pulls up a myriad of devices that appear to be vastly different from one another. Yet the FDA website clearly states that currently nothing can be called an over-the-counter hearing aid. What gives?
The confusion lies in defining what exactly constitutes a hearing aid, as opposed to hearing-augmentation devices like hearables and personal sound amplification products , which have been selling for years. The answer comes down to loudness and safety regulations: Hearing aids can get louder, have more targeted frequency-range boosts, and must meet specific ANSI safety standards, explains Angela Shoup, PhD, past president of the American Academy of Audiology. Hearables and PSAPs are generally limited to 20 dB of gain, and they boost broad ranges of sound instead of more specific frequenciesessentially, theyre quieter and clunkier. Hearables like the Nuheara IQbuds2 Max frequently look more like earbuds, can connect to your devices via Bluetooth, and may include a self-administered hearing test.
Convenience Store Vs Hearing Clinic In Lacey Washington
It can be very convenient to walk into a Costco and pick out a hearing aid based on a free hearing test. But the hearing test doesnt cover everything a test done by an audiologist would do, which means your exact type of hearing loss based on tone, pitch, and background noise wont be treated with a properly adjusted hearing aid.
A Costco hearing test also wont find the cause of your hearing loss, possibly missing a crucial, even life-saving, medical issue an audiologist would have found.
Also Check: When Do You Get Hiv Symptoms
Phonak Hearing Aids From Costco
Phonak, a subsidiary of industry leader Sonova, manufactures Phonak Brio hearing aids for Costco to sell. Brio hearing aids are available in a wide variety of behind-the-ear and in-the-ear models, with the newest Brio 5 models designed for those with severe-to-profound hearing loss. The previous generation Brio hearing aids are intended to treat mild-to-severe hearing loss.
Costco Hearing Aids: In
When on the process of purchasing hearing aids, you need to be more than just a shopper you need to step up and be a wise consumer. Take note that hearing aids are considered to be an investment and not just some lanky pair of headphones that you purchase at a gas stop.
Before you buy a product, you need to learn about its pros and cons, overall features and compatibility with your lifestyle so you get to enjoy the maximum consumer experience with Costco hearing aids. A customer can call or go to the nearest Costco store to schedule a free hearing test in the nearest Costco hearing centers. Said hearing centers are usually manned by a state-licensed hearing aid dispenser.
One commonly asked question about Costco hearing aids is this are the practices in conducting a hearing test the same with how it is done in the clinic of a professional audiologist? We would have to say probably while most of the Costco hearing aid centers staff comprise of a licensed dispenser, there are instances when an audiologist is present to conduct the test. According to Costco, a consumer wont have to worry about the warehouse location because in-house hearing centers actually have a sound-proof booth specifically designed to offer conducive conditions for an accurate hearing test.
A good thing about Walmart hearing aids is that they are labeled honestly legit hearing aids are labeled as FDA-registered. So if you see a hearing device that has no such label, you know what it means.
Also Check: Can You Get Hiv From Holding Hands
Phonak Hearing Aid Devices
Phonak hearing aid devices are produced by the same manufacturer as Kirkland Signature but have superior features making it a favorable option. Their hearing aid devices have motion sensors to improve speech differentiation while walking and talking. The devices have a control that pauses and resumes streaming while receiving a phone call. Additionally, the hearing aid devices are fitted with exciting features and accessories such as:
- PartnerMic Easy Line allows the user to stream audio from the hearing aid using Bluetooth and other smart devices
- Sound processing system analyzes the sound surroundings and adjust automatically
- myPhonak app gives the user remote control to his\her hearing aid in terms of volume, noise, and speech focus
- TV Connector Easy Line offers audio streaming from the TV directly to their hearing aid device.
Audicus Hearing Aids: An Overview
In a direct comparison, here are the details about Audicuss hearing aid options. Their top 3 hearing aid models are the Clara, Wave, and Spirit. For simplicity of this list, an asterisk is used when features vary by model, but most information applies to all models.
- Price: range of $1398 to $2798 for a pair
- Serves mild to severe hearing loss
- Rechargeable, battery-operated, or both*
- Remote operated, Bluetooth connectivity, and/or app-controlled*
- Manufactured by Sonova
- Comes in multiple colors
- Fits behind the ear
While these details seem simple to digest , its important to dig a little deeper into not just the hearing aids, but also the process of buying them, the customer support available, and the companies themselves.
Don’t Miss: Can You Get Hiv From Razor Blade
Comparing Costcos Products Including The Kirkland 100
With the test out of the way, it was time to discuss treatment options. Costco offers five brands. I’ll break each one down in some detail below. Regardless of product, all Costco hearing aids come with the same benefits:
-
Free follow-up appointments for life a
-
One $0 free replacement for loss or damage
-
Remote program adjustments
-
Free cleanings while you shop
Jabra Hearing Aids From Costco
As of June 2021, Costco now sells Jabra-branded hearing aids starting at $1,799.99 a pair. Jabra is better known for producing wireless earbuds and office headsets, but parent company GN Store Nord A/S is now testing the brand name in the hearing health space with the new Jabra Enhance Pro hearing aids, offered exclusively to Costco members.
To anyone familiar with the industry, Jabra Enhance Pro hearing aids look a lot like the latest flagship models from ReSound ReSound One. Enhance Pro and One both offer ReSounds latest Microphone & Receiver-In-Ear technology to provide more natural sound, offer rechargeable form factors, and provide the same suite of apps and wireless accessories.
Jabra Enhance Pro Hearing Aids and Standard Charger
Jabra Elite Pro is currently available in three receiver-in-the-canal models, the 61, 61 Rechargable, and 62. The 61 and 62 both use disposable size 312 batteries, while the 61 Rechargeable contains build-in lithium-ion rechargeable batteries . The 62 includes a dedicated volume rocker switch and telecoil, while the 61 offers a push button and no telecoil.
All three models offer ReSound popular Made-for-iPhone and Android ASHA wireless audio streaming technology that lets you use your hearing aids like stereo headphones with compatible iOS® and Android devices.
Don’t Miss: How Many People In Miami Have Hiv
Costco Hearing Aids Review
There is a substantial need for affordably-priced hearing aids with 17 percent of Americans having some hearing loss. The average hearing aid costs around $1,500 and is likely not covered by insurance. Costco combines bulk buying power with trusted hearing aid brands and in-store service to distinguish themselves from the competition.
Pros
- Offers several hearing aid brands in one store
- Free hearing aid loss and damage insurance
- Free cleanings and checkups
- Not all stores have a Costco Hearing Center
- Hearing aids selection is limited in some Costco locations
Are There Alternative Brands Of Affordable Hearing Aids
Costco is not the only company offering quality hearing aids at a fraction of the cost of those prescribed by specialists.
Nano hearing aids are top-rated and remain a popular choice with consumers. People with hearing loss can choose from a variety of hearing aid types and models. Nano hearing aids are cost effective since they are sold directly from the manufacturer to consumers, cutting out the middleman completely. People with various levels of hearing loss are catered for with a range of BTE and ITE models, and there are also rechargeable options for both types. Depending on the model, Nano hearing aids offer all the latest features and the Nano Sigma is the most advanced model, developed for those who demand a hearing aid that has all the modern features, including Bluetooth. Nano hearing aids are all dispatched with a set of different earbuds to ensure that every user can adjust the fit. Read Nano hearing aids reviews.
Hearing Assist has one ITE model and two BTE models, of which one supports Bluetooth and can also run a hearing check for adjustments. They are all rechargeable.
Signia hearing aidshas numerous models of which it most popular is the Pure 312. This is a small BTE device that can either be controlled with a discreet remote-controlled device or by a smartphone.
Eargo hearing aids are more suited to people with mild-to-moderate hearing problems. They offer BTE models and their most advanced is the NEO.
Also Check: How Long Before Hiv Symptoms
Costco Hearing Aid Fast
-
Costco hearing tests are free to members
-
Costco hearing center employees are typically hearing specialists v.s. audiologists
-
Costco hearing care professionals do not make a commission
-
Costco sells 19% of the hearing aids in the U.S.
-
Costco offers five brands of hearing aids that closely mirror private practice but under different names
-
Costco hearing aids start at $1,399 a pair for Kirkland 10.0 and go up to $2,700 a pair for custom mold hearing aids
-
Costco offers a two-year one loss or damage replacement for free
-
All Costco hearing aids come with unlimited free follow-up appointments remotely or in store
-
Clean your hearing aids any time at Costco for free while you shop
-
You will need a membership to access Costcos hearing aids, and Costco does not sell its hearing aids online at this time, so youll need to go into a store
Sounds pretty great. Is there a downside?
No one beats Costco on price. They are too big and too focused on being the lowest-priced option. For people like me , that’s great! Similarly, Costco technology is top-of-the-line, and their renamed products are nearly identical to some of the most premium options available at a private practice. All that said, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
Best And Worst Hearing Aid Brands And Retailers
CR’s survey tells you which brands to consider and where to buy them
For people who need them, hearing aids can represent a massive expense. Medicare and many private insurance plans dont cover them, so most people are simply on the hook for the full price. Consumer Reports members, for example, typically spent $2,680 out-of-pocket for their devices, according to our recent survey.
Buying hearing aids can also be complex, given the wide range of considerations when youre shopping, including battery life, fit, sound clarity, and more. To complicate matters, theres also the option of direct-to-consumer hearing aids, generally available online without a prescription, as well as personal sound amplification products .
Our newly updated hearing aid brand ratings, based on exclusive survey data from 26,788 CR members, can help ensure that you spend your money wisely.
Our hearing aid brand ratings cover 16 companies: Audibel, Beltone, Bernafon, Kirkland, Lucid, Miracle-Ear, Oticon, Phillips, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, TruHearing, Unitron, and Widex.
In our brand survey, CR members weighed in on their satisfaction with their hearing aids in three ways: overall based on different characteristics, such as battery life and reliability and how they performed in different situations, such as talking in small groups or listening to the TV or radio.
Read Also: How Can Hiv And Aids Be Transmitted
Costco Philips Hearing Aids
Costco has just introduced Philips HearLink hearing aids to its line-up as a replacement for Bernafon devices which they carried for a long time. Philips is a new entry to the world of modern hearing aids, although, they are also a legacy brand in the hearing aid world. Philips offered some outstanding hearing aids many years ago but left the hearing aid market. Recently they have entered into an agreement with Demant to re-enter the hearing aid market.
Philips hearing aids share their hardware with both Oticon and Bernafon, however, the strategies and features onboard are very different. For instance, Philips hearing aids use a different amplification strategy than the other brands.
Comparing Audicus Hearing Aids: Overview Of Disadvantages
Just like with Costco, there are potentially negative sides to purchasing from Audicus.
- Purchasing online may not be appealing. Since there are few stores stocking Audicus hearing aids, you do need to feel comfortable purchasing hearing aids over the Internet.
- Insurance is not accepted in most cases. Welcome to the club. For most individuals, hearing aids are not covered by insurance which is why Audicus works to provide other financing options.
- You have to choose which hearing aid to purchase. This is less of a con once you chat with an Audicus representative. However, since there are multiple hearing aid models at Audicus, you will need to determine which fits your needs best.
- You may be wary of a brand youve never heard of. Costco is a familiar name, while Audicus may be new. Luckily there are thousands of 5-star reviews available for you to read.
Don’t Miss: Why Is There No Vaccine For Hiv
Comparing Audicus And Costco: Which Is The Best Option For Buying Hearing Aids
The verdict will have to remain completely up to you, the buyer. The buying processes for these two companies couldnt be more different.
- One happens entirely face to face, while the other can be completed from the comfort of your own home.
- One company sells thousands of items across every different industry, while the other specializes in hearing aids and care.
- One offers support when staffing is available, while the other provides dedicated support staff for every single customer.
- One requires payment upfront, while the other provides payment plan options.
The products are comparable in pricing, manufacturing, and some specs. The differences enter with customer service and convenience.
So what matters to you? Where will you purchase your next pair of hearing aids?
Costco Hearing Aid Warranties And Service
Warranties vary by model and manufacturer, but Costco provides free loss and damage protection with no deductible for most hearing aids. Costco also checks and cleans hearing aids at no charge, and the Hearing Centers hold frequent events where you can see demonstrations of hearing aids and the accessories available with some hearing aid models. There is no hard selling at the events, and youll go home with plenty of information and a goody bag to help you decide which hearing aid works best.
Recommended Reading: How To Tell If You Hiv Positive
Phonak Brio 30 Hearing Aids
At Costco, this is a popular hearing aid that uses the AutoSense operating system.
The Phonak Brio 3.0 features binaural voice stream technology, roger wireless, AutoSense OS, four different receivers and Bluetooth capability.
Its price at $1,400 per hearing aid makes it an expensive option.
Pros and Cons of the Phonak Brio 3.0
The range comes in a variety of colors and has a remote app for Android and iOS use. Other pros include hands-free calls, audio and TV streaming, and their compatibility with Bluetooth devices.
Besides their high price, these hearing aids are not rechargeable.
Phonak has very trendy color choices and hearing aid wearers who live a very active lifestyle are offered many levels of programmability and comfort if they dont mind the price.
Costco Hearing Aid Center Reduced Services Due To Covid
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, over the past 2 years, many Costco locations had placed limits on hours and services. This had an impact on the companys hearing centers, as well as other Costco departments, across the US.
Until the spring of 2022, the company had posted the following notice on their website
To help limit personal contact and create more space for social distancing, Costco has reduced service in some departments. At some locations, there will be limited or no service at the Hearing Aid department, Costco Optical, the floral department and the jewelry department. Limitations vary by location. Costco members may continue to shop for some of these items at Costco.com.
Regulations in some states, territories or cities have limited purchases to only essential items. Items deemed non-essential may be purchased at Costco.com. Adhering to these regulations requires that Costco not sell normally available items or categories at its locations.
Read Also: Can You Get Hiv From Urine