Hearing Aid & Audiology Services
Audiologists
Much like the loss of sight, hearing loss can be devastating, but it is
very common. In fact, one in 10 Americans experience difficulty hearing.
Hearing sensitivity often decreases gradually and may go unnoticed for
years. You may not even realize how much you are missing. For this reason,
it is a good idea to have hearing evaluations annually by the experts at the
Mercy Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic.
What is an audiologist?
Audiologists are highly educated and trained hearing health care
professionals who are qualified to perform comprehensive hearing
evaluations. Mercy Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic audiologists are certified by
the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and hold current State of
Iowa licenses in audiology and hearing aid dispensing.
Mary Claire Summers, Au.D., CCC-A, Doctor of Audiology
Dr. Summers has been an audiologist with Mercy ENT since 1994. She received
her Masters degree form the University of Northern Colorado and her
Doctorate degree from the Arizona School of Health Sciences.
Lisa Gardner, M.S., CCC-A
Lisa has been a audiologist at Mercy ENT since 2007. She received her
Masters degree form Western Illinois University.
Barb Nelson,
M.A., CCC-A
Sharon Shipley,
Au.D.,CCC-A
Karen Kraemer,
M.S.
The Hearing Evaluation
If hearing loss is suspected, one of our
audiologists will conduct a thorough hearing
evaluation. It is possible to test infants as well
as adults and we strongly advise having an
evaluation if hearing ability is questioned.
When a hearing loss is detected that could be
treated medically you will be referred to one of our
physicians. Doctors Marshall Greiman, M.D., Matthew
Morgan, M.D., and Corey Mineck, M.D. have
expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of
disorders which cause hearing loss. They are
specialists who treat disorders of the head and neck
including the ear, nose and throat.
Hearing Aids
A hearing aid evaluation consists of a demonstration and/or a discussion
of hearing aid options. Our audiologists are able to select from a variety
of manufacturers for the hearing aid that is best for you.
During the evaluation, ear impressions are taken and hearing aid style
and circuit are selected. Hearing aids for both ears are always recommended
when it is suspected that both ears might benefit from amplification.
At the time of the orientation and fitting, we will check to see that the
hearing aids are appropriate for you. This includes checking for a
comfortable fit and insuring that the frequency response benefits you. We
will discuss how to use and care for your hearing aids. A 30-day trial
period is standard with each new aid.
Hearing Aid Costs
The following is an estimate of hearing aids and associated costs:
Hearing aid evaluation $50
Orientation and fitting $100
Hearing aid prices vary
Follow-up
Hearing aid follow-ups are recommended at the following times:
- two weeks after the purchase of the aids
- one month after the purchase of the aids
- six months after the purchase of the aids
- eleven months after the purchase of the aids, just before the
warranty expires
- at any time that you have questions or concerns about your
hearing aids
Locations
We have 3 locations in the Des Moines area as well as satellite clinics
in Ankeny, Pleasant Hill, and Indianola. Please contact us with any questions or concerns regarding your hearing health.
ENT Homepage
Questions? Call 1-800-CARE-ENT.
|
