Impressed with local VA audiology service

I was pleasantly amazed at the quality of service I received from my local VA audiology clinic.

Only 4 days from my request for appointment and my appointment time. I arrived at the clinic 7 minutes early and was escorted into the booth 5 minutes later. The technician communicated effectively and addressed my questions well.

She ordered a pair of Phonak Audeo P90’s available in 3 weeks Any opinions about that particular device?

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Just like always the VA only gives us the top of the line hearing aids. I get the Oticon aids and have for the last 11 years. I would ask about any extra devices you may need. Exterior mics, a TV adapter. Also, don’t be shy about going back if the aids need adjustments. Also you should have close to 180 days to return them and ask for a different brand of aids. More than likely she went with the Phonak because it is the aids she is most experienced with.

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The “Roger” system (exterior mic) that goes with the Phonak sounds worthwhile.

So, you’re saying that the VA will also provide the accessories like the TV bluetooth and the Roger?

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They do for me, my hearing loss s military service related and the also get a small disability check. I get all supplies and extras, including a dryer. I haven’t been turned down for anything I have requested.

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Make sure you request a copy of your audiogram. So you can post it here in the forum

I got the impression from my provider that they don’t question whether or not the hearing loss is service-related. At age 75 I’m feeling like I should volunteer for the Army again to help pay for all this.

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I was In the Navy 8 years as an electronic technician, I did a lot of repairs on the flight line and did a lot of long hauls in cargo jets. I loved my job in the service but it was really hard on my hearing.

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Yes, I trialed the previous Phonak Audeo Marvels, and got the Roger iN, the remote control, and the TV streamer.
The VA is a great resource.

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They will provide everything you may need. In my case with the OPN S1’s I received two tv streamers and a dehumidifier with no problems. While the VA healthcare is suspect IMO, their audiology depts rock.

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I have used the va for hearing aids and accessories for more than 40 years. Not only do they supply top of the line hearing aids, they also supply accessories, even at times accessories that I did not know even existed. The bluetooth for TV was a pleasant surprise and TV game changer. The only problem I ever had with them was them telling me that my hearing was not all that bad. I believe they were trying to get me to not pursue a higher disability rating. Even when veterans were almost afraid to use the VA system, the Audiology dept has performed above and beyond. imho…

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Yes, VA audiology dept. in Ocala is top drawer. She did say one ear was “marginal”, and did I want 1 or both aids? Having heard that 2 is always better, I said “both.” Having just one would be like having glasses with only one lens, even though the 2nd lens wouldn’t do much. But I’m sure there are good reasons why both aids are usually recommended.

I too have been using the VA health systems for many years now and have no complaint, especially for audiology. You get the best equipment available, any extras you may want and super care.

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Because the Right and Left aid communicate with one another binaurally.
Much easier to get true spacial hearing.

Then I’m surprised my audiologist left it to me to decide whether I wanted one or two aids.

At least in my clinic, they provide HA’s regardless of whether your need is service related or not. Earlier, at the main health clinic, I was told that they provide them only for service-related losses. At the Audiology clinic, I learned that they provide assistance to EVERY veteran, no matter what the loss.

Actually, I got a tongue-in-cheek chewing out because I purchased a remote out-of-pocket. The audiologist said they will provide anything I want – or need – free of charge. They’re a great bunch to work with.

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What he said. Agree. Same here in Ocala.

Same at Dallas/North Texas VA Center Audiology!

Same here, I am very happy with the quality of care I receive at my VA. My wife accompanied me on my recent audiology appointments (an eval and then a fitting of new instruments). She was amazed at how my audiologist listened to me, explained everything, made sure my devices were all connected.

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