The Hearing Aid Program at University of Michigan Health provides state-of-the-art amplification options for patients with hearing loss. Located at our four satellite clinics, our highly skilled audiologists evaluate patients for hearing loss, provide amplification, and counsel patients and their families on hearing devices, hearing strategies, and more. We work with a wide range of hearing aid manufacturers using evidence-based practices.
In addition to hearing aids, we also provide:
- Evaluation of devices purchased at outside clinics or online
- Swim plugs
- Musician’s plugs
- Hunter’s plugs
- Hearing accessories
For hearing aid related appointments, please contact us at 734-936-8051.
Hearing Aid Donations
The Audiologists at University of Michigan Health also participate in HOPE Clinic. HOPE Clinic provides healthcare services to thousands of people in the community who lack health insurance.
Hope for Hearing is a program that provides refurbished hearing aids in underserved populations through HOPE Clinic. You can find out more information, including how to donate your devices here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hearing aids “fix” my hearing and make it normal?
Hearing aids cannot “fix” your hearing loss or return your hearing back to normal. A hearing aid is meant to:
- Help you hear sounds and speech better
- Make communication easier by reducing some of the effort needed to hear others
- Improve quality of life by allowing you to fully participate in conversation with family and friends
How much do hearing aids cost and are they covered by insurance?
The price of a pair of hearing aids at University of Michigan Health ranges from $2,300-$5,300, and additional fees will apply for audiology services. Most insurance plans do not completely cover the cost of hearing aids, but some plans may include partial hearing aid coverage. Hearing aid coverage will be checked for each patient when a hearing aid evaluation is scheduled. You will be contacted prior to your appointment if your insurance plan does not offer hearing aid coverage.
How do I know which hearing aid will be best for me?
Your audiologist will provide you with recommendations to help guide your selection of the hearing aids that would be best for you and your specific hearing needs. University of Michigan Health works with several hearing aid companies in order to provide a wide range of options.
Does it take time to adjust to hearing aids?
Hearing aids introduce sounds at new volumes that you are not used to listening to. Your brain must adjust to the way a hearing aid sounds. The best way to adjust to your hearing aids is to wear them all day every day.
Steps to Getting a Hearing Aid
Have a hearing test (audiogram). A hearing test:
- Determines the TYPE and DEGREE (amount) of hearing loss which helps your audiologist recommend the hearing aids that are best for you
- Helps the audiologist know how to program and adjust your hearing aid settings
- Identifies abnormalities that may need medical attention from an Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) physician
Complete a Hearing Aid Evaluation (HAE)
This one-hour appointment will help you learn about different hearing aid styles, technologies, and costs. Your audiologist will recommend specific hearing aids based on your hearing loss, listening needs, as well as your budget. After you choose hearing aids, they will be ordered by your audiologist. You will receive your ordered hearing aids in 3-4 weeks during your hearing aid fitting appointment.
Hearing Aid Fitting & Follow-Up
At your hearing aid fitting, you will receive your new hearing aids, learn how to use and take care of them, and your audiologist will check to make sure your hearing aids are providing the correct amount of sound. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled in 2-4 weeks after your hearing aid fitting to see how your hearing aids have helped in your “real-world” listening environments. Additional routine hearing aid appointments may also be recommended.
Additional Hearing Aid Resources
For more information, visit the Audiology page on UofMHealth.org.
Over The Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids Frequently Asked Questions
Hearing Aid Clinic Locations
East Ann Arbor Health & Geriatrics Center
4260 Plymouth Road
Floor B1, Room 113
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
734-647-7713
West Ann Arbor Parkland Plaza
380 Parkland Plaza
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
734-232-1498
Livonia Center for Specialty Care
19900 Haggerty Road
Suite 111
Livonia, MI 48152
734-432-7812
Brighton Center for Specialty Care
7500 Challis Road
Entrance 1, Floor 2
Brighton, MI 48116
810-263-4838
Call Center: 734-936-8051