Posts Tagged ‘Audigy Group’

Consumer Protection Laws & Regulations for Hearing Aid Purchases

October 12th, 2011

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
Follow North State Audiological Services | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.nsaudiology.com

Here in California – as in many states – purchasers of hearing aids are afforded protections under state laws and regulations administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) through the Speech-Language and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispenser Board (SLPAHADB).

The SLPAHADB was formed on January 1, 2010 by combining the Speech Language Pathology and Audiology Board with the Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.  Previous laws and regulations remain virtually unchanged except that audiologists are no longer required to hold dual licensure for practicing audiology and dispensing hearing aids.

Audiologist & Ear Doctor, Dr. Crystal Chalmers, Chico, CaliforniaThis board’s mission is ensuring the competency and fair practices of hearing aid dispensers.  It does so by providing licensure through testing, ethical guidelines, boundaries for advertising practices, and acts as a vehicle for consumer complaints, ultimately providing enforcement and disciplinary functions.

While political discussion in the media about government intrusion in our lives is a hotbed topic, consumer protection laws are generally an accepted interaction between the citizenry and government.  Who wants to buy poisonous food, cars that don’t run, or housing that collapses in the slightest breeze, to name just a few examples?

Why should it be any different with hearing aids?   Purchasers have a right to expect fair and honest treatment as well as professional expertise from those they seek help.  It could be argued that hearing aid purchasers – many of whom are our senior citizens – should receive an added degree of protection as many of our laws are designed to protect us as we age beyond our more active years, and thereby tend to rely on the care and guidance of those who are younger.

While all the laws and regulations are too lengthy to list here, these are several of the most important.  For the full listings, visit the SLPAHADB website at www.speechandhearing.ca.gov

  • 30 Day Warranty  – The “Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act” provides a 30 day warranty on all new and used hearing aids.  If the hearing aid is not specifically fit for the buyer’s particular needs, the device may be returned to the dispenser within 30 days of the of the date of the actual receipt by the buyer or completion of fitting by the seller, whichever occurs later.  If the buyer returns the device the seller must either adjust or replace the device or promptly refund the total amount paid.

It should be noted that while many dispensers advertise things like “30 day risk-free guarantee” they are merely staying within the state mandated minimum trial period of 30 days.  My professional opinion is that for many purchasers, 30 days is too short as it does not allow enough time for the brain to get used to hearing again.  In my practice, I offer a 75 day trial period in order to make certain my patients have all the time they need to be successful.

  • Mail Order & Internet Sales  – California law provides that mail order/Internet hearing aids may only be purchased through a dispenser licensed in California.  The law also states that that when hearing aids are purchased by mail order/Internet, there must be no fitting, selection, or adaptation of the instrument and that the seller must not give any advice with respect to the taking of an ear impression(s). Anyone contemplating this avenue should be aware of potential risks as to work effectively, hearing aids must fit correctly.  If a sale doesn’t involve personal contact between the dispenser and buyer, it is difficult to assume that proper fitting and follow-up care could occur.
  • In-Home Contracts & Cancellation Rights – If you sign a hearing aid purchase contract in your home, federal and state laws allow you to cancel it for any reason by midnight of the third business day after you signed the contract.
  • Advertising Guidelines –  Did you know that in California, hearing aid dispensers are not licensed to perform diagnostic hearing evaluations (only audiologists are licensed to do so) and are therefore not allowed to charge a fee for “testing”?  That is why they advertise “free” tests, BUT they must state that the “test” is “to determine if you could be helped by a hearing aid.”

No one selling hearing aids in California can refer to themselves as a “specialist” without including the title “hearing aid dispenser”, nor can anyone refer to certification by putting a bunch of letters after their name.  For example, this listing: “John Doe, NB-HIS” is unlawful.  The correct listing should be:  “John Doe, Hearing Aid Dispenser, Lic. No. XXXX, NB-HIS, Certified by the National Board of Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences”

Have you ever received one of those “rebate coupons” that resemble checks as part of a direct mail solicitation?  It is a violation to send those to anyone living in California.

And finally, no California licensed hearing aid dispenser can use the terms “doctor” or “physician” or “clinic” or “audiologist” or any derivation thereof, except as authorized by law.

These are just a few of the consumer protections for purchasing hearing aids.   I urge you to be good consumers by getting the facts and educating yourself about where you stand and whom it is that you are considering doing business with.  You’ve worked hard all your life and deserve to be treated fairly, professionally, and with what is in your best interest  …. Because hearing is a wonderful gift!

About the writer:  Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of AudigyGroup, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

Since 2006, AudigyGroup has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 200 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of AudigyGroup, LLC.

To learn more about Dr. Chalmers, her practice, and AudigyGroup visit online at www.nsaudiology.com

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Posted in Assisitve Listening Technology, Assistive Listening Device, Au.D., Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Audiologist, Audiology, Chico, Crystal Chalmers, Digital Hearing Aids, Digital Hearing Devices, Doctor of Audiology, Earmolds, Hearing, Hearing Aid, Hearing Aids, Hearing Care, Hearing Device, North State Audiological Serivces

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Medicare and Hearing Health Care

July 6th, 2011

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
Follow North State Audiological Services | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.nsaudiology.com

Two questions my staff and I get on a regular basis are: #1.)“Does Medicare pay for hearing tests?  Also: #2.) “If the tests show that I need hearing aids, will Medicare pay for the devices?”

The answer to question #1 is that Medicare does not cover routine hearing exams.  When I say “routine” I am referring to regular hearing testing done at the request of the patient for the purpose of determining the extent of hearing difficulties, much the same as any other health care check up.

Diagnostic audiological services are paid for, by Medicare, when a physician orders testing to obtain information to determine the appropriate medical or surgical treatment of a hearing deficit or related medical problem.

Audiologist & Ear Doctor, Dr. Crystal Chalmers, Chico, CaliforniaHowever, services are excluded when the diagnostic information required to determine the appropriate medical or surgical treatment is already known to the physician or the diagnostic services are performed only to determine the need for hearing aids or hearing aid reprogramming.

If the need for testing and hearing technology does not come under the specific guidelines outlined above, then the patient is responsible for 100% of the professional fees.

As for question #2.), the same is true for hearing aids, which under Federal law are considered “cosmetic” items.  Whether or not you agree with this, the law has stood this way for decades and it would take an act of Congress to change the national coverage policy.

That said, as a consumer you should be aware of any audiologist or hearing aid dispenser who tells you “yes” they will bill Medicare for your non-referred hearing tests and/or hearing aids.  This practice is illegal and as a consultant and special witness for the FBI, I can tell you that the Federal Government is not taking these fraudulent acts lightly.  In fact, they are cracking down on this activity and have recently prosecuted cases here in California.

To find out more about Medicare coverage for hearing care services and technology, visit the official U.S. Government site at www.medicare.gov.

If you have more questions about hearing care such as diagnostic testing and hearing technology, you can visit my website, or call my office toll free at 1 (888) 893-1352 …. Because hearing is a wonderful gift!”

About the writer: Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

Since 2006, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 190 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of AudigyGroup, LLC.

To learn more about Dr. Chalmers, her practice, and Audigy Group visit online at www.nsaudiology.com

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Posted in Audiologist, California, Chico, Crystal Chalmers, Diagnostic Testing, Hearing Device, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Problem, Hearing Technology, Hearing Test, Hearing Tested, Medicare, North State Audiological Serivces, Uncategorized

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Raising the Bar of Excellence — AudigyCertified™: It’s Who We Are, It’s What We Provide

January 28th, 2011

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
www.nsaudiology.com

With the start of the New Year, we are reaching an important date here at North State Audiological Services.

In January of 2008, my husband and business partner, Edward Migale, and I attended a Guest Summit meeting held by Audigy Group in Palm Desert, CA.  At that meeting we met Audigy Group founder and president Brandon Dawson along with Executive Vice President Mason Walker and other key staffers.

It didn’t take long for Edward and me to realize that the offer of membership in this exclusive association was a perfect match for my vision of North State Audiological Services as the leading hearing care provider in the entire North State region.  As many of you know, I long ago chose the fascinating profession of audiology as my life’s work, and wanted nothing more than to help as many people as possible with their hearing care needs.

Since starting this practice over 16 years ago we have reached thousands of people in Chico and the surrounding area, providing excellent care along with technological expertise, but I wanted to be able to do more.  The vision shared to us that day by Mr. Dawson and his staff promised that the services offered by Audigy Group would provide us with the tools to do so.

Has that happened?   Yes! … 100 times over!  How so?  First of all, Audigy Group provides us with superb staff training.  For any of you who have been to the office in the last few years – and notably the last year and a half – you would know that our staff excels in patient care.  All of our staff, along with Edward and myself have taken – and continue to attend – courses that teach us how to take better care of your needs.  I can say with pride that I fully believe we now provide patient care at level superior to any health care facility anywhere in the nation.

Technologically, we have made investments in testing equipment, as well patient support systems, that are state-of-the-art.  You will find no better diagnostic equipment, anywhere.

And our hearing aids?  In a word: Fabulous! AudigyGroup has partnered with several of the leading hearing technology manufacturers in the world and now provides its members with exclusive access to AGX Technology.

This is not merely private-label products.  AGX Technology is the only private brand in the entire world-wide hearing care industry that is supported by multiple manufacturer products and has brand specific software.  Much of the software was designed and customized by AudigyCertified professionals – fellow members whom I have met at our semi-annual conferences and multiple training sessions.  Like myself they are passionate about the field of audiology and their input into the development of these products is based on years of experience working with patients just like you.

In addition, with close to 200 Audigy Group members with a combined 500 plus practice locations in over 40 states, there is no need to be concerned about cross country travel plans; Audigy Group members will gladly take care of other member’s patients should there ever be a need.

As for the future, Audigy Group is poised to continue its growth as the dominant force in the hearing care industry.  Under the careful guidance of Mr. Dawson, Mr. Walker, and the many talented professionals employed there, Audigy Group has grown from a mere handful of visionaries in 2006 to the largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals in the United States.

I and my staff are exceedingly proud to be a part of that growth and commitment to excellence and hope you’ll join us in celebrating our 3 years of achievement.

Here is how you can participate in our celebration:

From now through the end of 2011 anyone who wears hearing aids – no matter where or when you purchased them – can come to our office for a free cleaning and hearing aid batteries.  Simply stop by our office anytime during normal business hours which are Monday thru Thursday 9:00 am till 5:00 pm (closed for lunch Noon till 1:00 pm) and Fridays 9:00 am till 12 Noon.  We are located in southeast Chico very near the junction of Highway 99 and the Skyway.  Our address is 15 Jan Court, which is off of Forest Avenue, behind the Raley’s Skypark Plaza.  For a map and complete directions, visit my Internet website at www.nsaudiology.com .

We will clean your hearing aids, and install fresh batteries …. for FREE! There is no absolutely no cost or obligation to participate in this offer … because hearing is a wonderful gift!

About the writer: Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of AudigyGroup, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

Since 2006, AudigyGroup has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 190 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of Audigy Group, LLC.

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Posted in AGX Hearing Aids, Au.D., Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Audiologist, California, Chico, Clinical Audiologist, Crystal Chalmers, Doctor of Audiology, North State Audiological Serivces, Uncategorized

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Hearing Loss Now Third Most Common Health Problem in the United States….

August 6th, 2010

By: Janis Wolfe Gasch, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
Founding Director
Arizona Hearing Specialists
7574 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85741
(520) 742-2845
www.arizonahearing.com

Hearing Loss Now Third Most Common Health Problem in the United States and Americans believe their social life and safety are suffering…..

Tucson, AZ – With more than 50 million Americans suffering from its effects, hearing loss is now the third most common health problem in the country today, behind only arthritis and heart disease.  Additionally, Americans believe their social life and/or safety is the most negatively impacted by substantial hearing loss, results found from a nationwide survey of 1,000 adults (conducted by HearUSA – Kelton Research).

“More than half of all hearing impaired persons are younger than 65,” says Janis Wolfe Gasch, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology and Founding Director of Arizona Hearing Specialists in Tucson and Green Valley.  “Sadly, too many people either do not recognize that they are having hearing difficulties, or do not want to admit their difficulties due to preconceived notions or social stereotypes.”

Findings have shown that even mild hearing loss can lead to avoidance of social situations, reduced alertness and reduced job performance and earning power. Because not seeking treatment can have long-term negative effects on communication and cognition, Dr. Gasch wants to remind people that help is available. 

Arizona Hearing Specialists wants to encourage people in the community to seek answers to their questions about hearing difficulties and to educate themselves about available solutions.  For over 25 years, the locally owned hearing care practice has been helping people improve the quality of their lives through better hearing.  Additionally, they are certified by Audigy Group as being one of the leading hearing care providers in the nation. 

During August, two educational seminars, with breakfast included, are free to the public on two separate dates.  However, due to limited seating, the Seminar requires advance reservations. Interested persons should call 520.742.2845 to reserve their space.  Spouses or significant others are encouraged to also attend. People are also welcome to visit www.arizonahearing.com for other events and information throughout the year.

“My goal in sponsoring these events is to provide people in our community with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions regarding their hearing health,” says Dr. Gasch.

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Posted in Arizona Hearing Specialists, Audigy Group, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Health, Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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Hearing Care, the Internet, and “Big Box” Retailers

July 23rd, 2010

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology      
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
www.nsaudiology.com

A full decade into the 21st Century, it would be rare to find an American who has not been to a modern shopping mall or used the Internet.  In fact many of us visit “Big Box” anchored shopping malls at least occasionally, and the number of Americans who regularly use the Internet far exceeds the number who do not.  Even amongst senior citizens — the final demographic to embrace this technology — the gap between Internet users and non-users continues to narrow.

Without doubt, the Internet is a fabulous tool, providing us with a wealth of easily obtainable information in mere seconds.  And the amount of relatively low-priced goods and services that “Big Box” and chain retailers supply can certainly help many families stretch their monthly budget.

But are these two venues the be-all-and-end-all for every consumer scenario?

The short answer is, “Absolutely not!” … especially when it comes to professional hearing care technology and follow-up service.  The Internet outlets as well as “Big Box” and retail chain stores simply cannot provide the level of patient care and service that a full-service, AudigyCertified™ hearing care practice must provide to its patients.

These outlets may tout “low prices” but remember that “price” is only an issue in the absence of value.  And when it comes to hearing care services and technology, value is clearly lacking from these types of retailers.

Compare Apples with Apples

You’ve heard that old saying countless times before and there is a good reason for its longevity.  High volume consumer retailers and Internet companies are famous for blow-out prices on a host of products, many of which are either close-outs on outdated technology or are subsidized by the manufacturer.  Then, they make those skinny margins work for them by cutting corners on labor which means poor service … for you!

This may be fine for a lot of goods such as flashlight batteries, printer paper, bulk grocery items, and various sundries.

But because hearing difficulties are so unique to each and every individual a far different approach is absolutely mandatory for a successful solution.  Achieving that solution should be a process built upon a relationship of trust and respect between the patient and a highly trained, competent, and ethical professional whose services and products provide long-term value.

For example, as a private care Doctor of Audiology and member of Audigy Group™ – the nation’s largest member-owned association of hearing care professionals — my practice is AudigyCertified™ in order to guarantee my patients that they will receive nothing less than the most experienced, professional care available in the Untied States.

All my patients receive the following:

● 100% Service Satisfaction Guarantee in Writing

● Complimentary 75 Day Trial Period on all New AGX Hearing Aid Technology Purchases

● 3 Year Warranty

● 3 Year Loss and Damage Insurance

● Free Batteries … for Life!

● Complimentary Monthly Clean & Check of Technology with Fresh Batteries Installed

● Free Annual Hearing Screening

As a smart consumer, you really do need to make sure you are comparing apples with apples.  And one good way is through the Internet, which, as noted above, shines in providing information.  Check websites. Do research.  Verify credentials as well as state and federal consumer protection laws.  A good website should educate you.

In closing, I founded North State Audiological Services with the goal of offering complete hearing health care ranging from diagnostic testing to treatment for tinnitus, with hearing technology sales and fitting based upon patient need and lifestyle; not on manufacturer incentives.  For my staff and I, our jobs are not about selling something.  Instead, it is all about taking care of our patients and helping them hear better.

Do you have questions for me or about my practice?  You can call toll free at (888) 844-7024, post a comment on this blog, email me at drchalmers@nsaudiology.com or visit my website at www.nsaudiology.com …… because hearing is a wonderful gift!”

About the writer:  Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals. 

Since 2006, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 170 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of Audigy Group, LLC.

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Posted in AGX Hearing Aids, Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Chain Hearing Aid Retailors, Crystal Chalmers, Diagnostic Testing, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aids, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Screening, Hearing Technology, Hearing Test, North State Audiological Serivces, Professional Hearing Care, tinnitus, Uncategorized

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Why Choose an AudigyCertified™ Hearing Care Professional?

March 4th, 2010

  

Trust Audigy Group

Why Choose an AudigyCertified™ Hearing Care Professional? 

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology      
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
www.nsaudiology.com                                 

Did you know that the most exciting news in the field of hearing health care during the past three years isn’t a hearing aid breakthrough, nor is it a software programming revelation. 

No, the most exciting thing to happen in the last three years – perhaps even during my nearly 30 years in audiology — is the formation of Audigy Group™, the largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals in the United States. 

Purpose 

Audigy Group’s purpose is to strategically select and certify the most elite practitioners in each market who exemplify the core values of the group’s mission and vision in delivery of hearing and diagnostic services.  Our shared mission is to deliver: 

● Unsurpassed patient satisfaction 

● Excellence through continued education 

● Effective analysis and diagnosis of our patient’s hearing difficulties or balance condition 

● Customized technology solutions that effectively integrate speech comprehension back into our patient’s lives 

● Ongoing investment in the most advanced processes, procedures, and technology to ensure superior results for each patient  

Elite Practices 

Not every audiologist can qualify for membership in this elite, demanding association.  Since its inception three years ago, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, and, to date, has selected only 140 to be members, of which I am one … and the only one in the entire northeast part of California. 

I am proud and honored to be part of such a prestigious group, because while Audigy Group’s membership may only comprise 2% of the professionals in our field, those professionals represent over 400 offices coast-to-coast in 39 states!   And having been actively involved in the association’s numerous training sessions, conferences, and events for the past two years, I can assure you that its members and staff are simply superb individuals who are committed to being the very best in their profession. 

Raising the Bar in Hearing Care Excellence 

So what does this all mean to you?   By seeking out and insisting on being seen by an AudigyCertified™ professional you are guaranteed to receive the highest level of care available in the nation today.  AudigyCertified™ practices provide to each of their patients the following core values: 

► Experienced Professionals – AudigyCertified™ professionals are carefully selected based on their proven ability to provide the highest level of patient satisfaction. 

► Expert Advice – As independent practitioners, AudigyCertified professionals provide advice and recommendations to their patients based solely on the patient’s needs. 

► Extraordinary Technology – Audigy Group empowers its members to provide their patients with the very best technology solutions from a variety of the top manufacturers in the world.  

►Excellent Service – Through continuous training and self improvement, the goal of every AudigyCertified professional and their staff is to fully and completely stand behind their expertise and technology … every day, of every week, of every month … all year long! 

► Exceptional Value – AudigyCertified professionals understand that “value” is not measured by price alone.  Rather, value is about how well we utilize our knowledge and experience to create a customized solution to meet our patient’s hearing expectations for their unique lifestyle. 

In closing, don’t settle for anything but the best.  Your hearing is too important!  It affects your daily life, as well as the lives of your family and friends.  Insist on seeing an AudigyCertified professional … because hearing is wonderful gift! 

 About the writer:  Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member/owner of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

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Posted in Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Audiologist, Clinical Audiologist, Doctor of Audiology, Elite Practitioners, Hearing Aids, Hearing Device, Hearing Technology, Private Practice, Uncategorized

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