Free Hearing Screening at Bloomington-Normal Audiology

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Appointments are Required

What is the difference between a hearing screening and a hearing exam?

• A hearing screening is a preliminary test to determine whether you have hearing loss or not. Your results are a simple yes or no (otherwise known as pass/fail).
• A hearing exam is for those who know or suspect they have hearing loss, and need more detailed testing and results to determine the type and severity of loss, and recommended options to treat it.

What happens during a hearing screening?

• A screening begins with a brief review of your medical history and concerns.
• The doctor will look in your ears to make sure there are no obstructions and the ear is healthy.
• You will sit in a soundproof booth with headphones.
• You will listen to a series of tones presented at the limit for acceptable normal hearing.
• You will indicate if/when you hear them.
• Results and recommendations are presented at the end of the screening.

If I have hearing loss, can I buy a pair of hearing aids at my screening?

No, you will not be able to buy prescription hearing aids immediately following a hearing screening. There are very specific legal requirements for diagnostic testing and a written prescription to be completed prior to purchasing prescription hearing aids. After your screening we’re happy to talk through next steps.

What happens during a hearing exam?

Also called an audiologic or diagnostic evaluation, it is a more comprehensive test that measures the type and degree of hearing loss in each ear.

• A diagnostic exam begins with a detailed review of your medical history and concerns.
• The doctor will look in your ears to make sure there are no obstructions and the ear is healthy.
• You will sit in a soundproof booth with headphones.
• You will be asked to respond to different tones to find the softest level you can hear each pitch in each ear.
• You will also be asked to repeat words to assess your comprehension.
• Afterward the doctor will sit down with you to review your results and make recommendations.

How do I know what type of exam I need?

Detailed exams have varying costs because of the depth of the testing, equipment involved, and whether they involve recommendations from your doctor.

At BNA, we will suggest the appropriate exam based on your unique situation, however, you can also view these in more detail on our Services & Pricing page.

Schedule an appointment or call our office and our team can explain the differences and options available to you.

Let us help get you on a path to better hearing.

Request an Appointment

Appointments are Required