Division of Audiology

The Audiology Service provides screening and comprehensive evaluation of hearing and hearing disorders for patients of all ages. We are equipped and trained to provide a wide range of state-of-the-art diagnostic procedures.

Did you know that:

  • One out of 10 people in the United State has a hearing loss?
  • At age 65, one out of three people has a hearing loss?
  • Today's hearing aids are virtually undetectable?

Digital Hearing Aids

Digital hearing aids are the latest technology on the market. These aids automatically adjust to the changing acoustic environments by analyzing sound and reproducing those signals at a loudness that is comfortable for the patient. Therefore, soft sounds are made audible and loud sounds are made comfortable. The digital aid performs better in noisy environment, in addition, it has feedback reduction capabilities. The digital aid is completely automatic, therefore, no remote control is necessary.

Conventional/Analog Hearing Aids

The term, conventional hearing aid, refers to either a linear or compression circuit versus a computer programmable circuit. Compression circuitry is widely used. It is appropriate for patients who are bothered by loud sounds, but still need soft sounds amplified. Linear circuitry amplifies all sounds equally. For every decibel change in input, there is an equivalent change in output (1:1 ratio). In loud environments this occurs until the hearing aid saturates. At saturation the hearing aid cannot produce greater output. The volume control is adjusted by the listener based on the loudness of the environment.

Styles of Hearing Aids
  • Behind-the Ear (BTE)
  • In-the-Ear (ITE)
  • In-the-Canal (ITC)
  • Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)

UVa's Hearing Aid Fitting Policy

The purchase of a hearing aid includes the following services:

  • Hearing aid fitting
  • Instruction of use and care of the instrument
  • Follow-up visits necessary during the first two years following issuance of the hearing aid

All hearing aids are issued with a 30-day trial period. Within that time, if for any reason the hearing aid is not satisfactory, the hearing aid(s) may be returned for a full refund less $150 for digital hearing aid(s) or $100 for analog hearing aid(s). The hearing aid(s) must be in good condition when returned. If two hearing aids are purchased and only one returned, the cost of the second aid is refunded in full.

Full payment for the hearing aid(s) is required when the patient picks up the hearing aid(s). Payment may be made by check, cash, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa).

The cost of the hearing aids does not included diagnostic hearing tests (e.g. audiogram and hearing aid evaluation) performed by the audiologist. The clinic is open for office visits and repairs by appointment Monday through Friday from 8:15 to 4:30. Please call ahead to arrange your appointment.