Patient Resources

There are many hearing aids available today. Some are bought from high street retail stores, some from high-level private audiology clinics, and some can even be purchased online without any professional support. 

It’s important to understand that the best results for your lifestyle and hearing come from working with a highly qualified and ethical hearing care professional. There is no single right answer, as this is your hearing journey, and you should choose the provider and technology that best suits your needs. 

High Street 

When you visit a trusted high street brand, you might feel reassured by the familiar signage and recognised name, knowing roughly what to expect from the service. Many high street stores employ qualified hearing professionals, but it’s important that you don’t feel rushed or treated like part of a conveyor belt. Continuity of care can be an issue in busy locations, where you may end up seeing different staff members each time. 

Additionally, due to the busyness of these environments, maintaining personal space and comfort can be challenging unless strict measures are in place. Busy stores also tend to operate within strict appointment time slots, meaning hearing tests and wax removal procedures can feel hurried. 

If you choose to buy hearing aids from a high street retailer, make sure to ask about their aftercare service and how long it is offered. You should expect six-monthly reviews to ensure consistent support and adjustment throughout your hearing journey. At Beckenham Hearing, we are proud to provide this ongoing service and client care. 

Your hearing changes over time, so reviewing your audiogram at least every six months helps maintain your residual hearing for longer. It’s also worth considering accessibility and parking, as well as the potential stress of travelling to busy locations. Many people prefer out-of-town clinics for this reason, finding them calmer and more personal. 

Some high street stores offer excellent hearing care and advice, but the key is to choose a professional you like and trust. 

Fully Qualified Audiologists 

When you visit a fully qualified clinical audiologist in a private practice, often located out of town or in a quieter area, you will generally receive more time and personalised attention than elsewhere. These professionals take the time to listen to your needs and design a hearing solution that fits your lifestyle, helping you live confidently every day. 

Private clinics typically offer a more exclusive and individualised approach to hearing care, transparent pricing, and the opportunity to take your time making decisions. The environment is often more relaxed and family-oriented. 

Some high street providers also offer similar experiences, but continuity of care can vary. Private clinics usually include additional benefits such as hearing aid trial periods, full aftercare service, device maintenance, extended warranties of up to five years, and even money-back guarantees. These services contribute to a more comprehensive and supportive hearing care journey. 

Whoever you choose, it’s essential that you feel comfortable with your hearing care professional and trust their advice. In hearing care, as in all areas of healthcare, the focus should always be on you, not the technology being sold. 

You should feel listened to and prioritised throughout your experience, as this is key to achieving the best long-term results. 

Online 

Buying hearing aids online can be convenient, but it often means sacrificing the personal support and lifestyle matching that ensure successful outcomes. Online providers tend to focus on price and delivery speed, which may suit someone with a mild hearing loss, but for more complex cases, these solutions can fall short. 

Many of our patients who initially purchased hearing aids online have told us they were left disappointed, as their experience did not meet expectations. The marketing can be persuasive, but without expert input, the results are inconsistent. 

This doesn’t mean there’s no place for online hearing care, it is a growing option, but for most people, in-person care delivers a higher level of accuracy and satisfaction. 

Qualified hearing professionals pride themselves on taking time with patients and ensuring that everything possible is done properly and effectively. Since the pandemic, many audiologists, including us at Beckenham Hearing, now offer remote hearing care, allowing video consultations and support sessions for added flexibility and safety. 

Audiology is classed as an essential service, meaning you can continue your appointments even during restrictions, keeping your hearing health a priority no matter the circumstances. 

Ready To Find The Right Hearing Care For You? 

If you’d like completely unbiased advice about choosing the best hearing care solution for your needs, get in touch with us. 

Whether you’re comparing high street options, exploring private care, or curious about online hearing support, we’ll help you make an informed decision with confidence. 

Book a hearing assessment or consultation today and take the first step towards clearer hearing and a more connected life.