Are Follow Up AppointmentsReally Necessary?

The answer to that question is yes! Being fit with hearing aids is a very important step toward better communication, improved relationships and enhancing your quality of life. The journey, however, does not end when the devices are fit for you or a loved one. Follow-up appointments are a critical part of ensuring long-term success with hearing aids. 

1.        Fine Tuning – Hearing aids are highly sophisticated devices programmed specifically for an individual’s hearing loss. Even with advanced technology and good initial fittings, adjustments are often needed. Small changes can make a big difference in your everyday listening environment.

2.       Re-train the brain – When you being to wear hearing aids the brain must re-learn how to process sound it hasn’t heard in long time. Everyday sounds like rustling paper, walking on gravel or running water may initially seem unusually loud or distracting. Follow-up appointments give you a chance to talk to your provider about these experiences and adjustments to be made.

3.        Comfort and Fit – Making sure the hearing aids are physically comfortable is just as important as the sound quality. If hearing aids are causing soreness, irritation or just don’t feel right you won’t want to wear them.  Follow up appointments allows the provider to check the fit of the earmold or dome and to make adjustments/modifications to their earpieces if needed. Generally, a comfortable device is a worn device.

4.       Proper Care and Maintenance – Hearing aids require routine cleaning and care. During follow-up appointments you can learn how to properly clean the devices, change the wax filters if applicable and troubleshoot common issues. Routine and regular maintenance can help extend the life of the hearing aids. 

5.       Monitor Hearing Changes – Over time hearing can change.  Follow-up appointments allow you to have conversations with your provider about your hearing and possible changes in your hearing. A change in hearing might mean that an adjustment of the hearing aids or prescription test is due. 



Hearing aid are not a “fit it and forget it” solution. They are part of an ongoing relationship between you and your hearing healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments lead to a higher level of patient satisfaction, which ultimately means improved quality of life through better hearing.