Why Real-Ear Measurement is the

Most Important Part of a Hearing Aid Fitting Process

In a recent article in Hearing Review, April 2010, audiologists found:¹

Although it is apparent that hearing aids have improved significantly during the past decade, the data indicate that quality control at the point of dispensing has not kept pace with technological improvements.

Real-Ear Measurements show hearing aid isn't working.

The ten top reasons mistakes were made are:²

1. Failing to verify the fitting with probe-microphone measurements;
2. Understanding when to use an open fitting and when not to;
3. Assuming the manufacturer defaults are correct for each patient;
4. Not taking manual dexterity into account when selecting the hearing aids;
5. Not performing appropriate validation measures;
6. Not conducting the appropriate counseling;
7. Using the first-time, new-user, or inexperienced-user gain settings and not revisiting the settings over time;
8. Fitting a hearing aid without “buy-in” from the patient;
9. Assuming that automatic environmental steering programs are accurate and the hearing aids switch appropriately; and
10. Failing to use newer tests to help with selection, fitting, and counseling.

If you are interested in the entire article, you can find it here >

Dr. Gail Linn has been doing real-ear/probe-microphone measurements for over twenty years. Real-ear measures are done routinely for all hearing aid patients. Call 240-477-1010 to schedule an appointment or professional consultation with Dr. Linn.

1. MarkeTrak VIII: The Impact of the Hearing Healthcare Professional on Hearing Aid User Success. Hearing Review April 2010: 12-24.
2. Christensen L, Groth J. Top ten clinician mistakes in geriatric hearing aid fitting. Seminar presented at: American Academy of Audiology; April 2008; Dallas.