It is important to know your audiologist is taking a thorough, evidence-based approach. Asking the right questions helps you understand your hearing loss, make informed decisions about technology, and get the best long-term results from your devices.
Below are key questions to ask during your hearing aid assessment and fitting.
Assessment & Diagnosis
How comprehensive was the hearing test?
Did it include:Speech-in-noise testing (to see how you manage in real-world, noisy situations)?
Real-ear measurements (REM) to verify the hearing aids are meeting your prescription in your ear, not just “on the computer”?
Do you test extended high frequencies?
Higher-than-standard test frequencies can sometimes show early changes from noise exposure or ageing, and can be important for people with tinnitus, a history of noise, or musicians.Can you explain the type and degree of my hearing loss and how it will impact everyday listening?
Your audiologist should be able to explain:What your audiogram shows in plain language
How this affects things like following conversations, hearing in noise, enjoying music, or hearing soft sounds at home
Hearing Aid Selection & Fit
What brands or models do you suggest for me?
An independent Audiologist will be able to recommend from a range of brands, depending on your situation. They will be able to discuss;How will this device address my primary hearing challenges?
For instance:“I struggle most in restaurants and meetings”
“I want better sound quality for music”
The audiologist should link features of the device to those specific problems.
Will the hearing aid be custom-fitted? How do you ensure it fits comfortably and effectively?
Ask whether:Custom earmoulds or custom shells are recommended
Comfort and acoustic seal are checked and adjusted over time
- Ask how the prescribed amplification is adjusted to your hearing loss.
Technology & Features
How do the features of this hearing aid benefit my specific hearing profile?
For example:AI-based personalisation or “learning” features
Tinnitus therapy or sound enrichment programs (such as Widex Zen)
Directional microphones and noise reduction for complex listening environments
How does this device integrate with my other technology?
Ask about:Direct streaming to iPhone or Android
Compatibility with TV streamers, remote microphones, or other assistive listening devices
The app used to control volume, programs, and personalisation
Personalisation & Follow-Up
How do you personalise the hearing aid settings over time?
Good fittings are rarely “set and forget”. Ask how your audiologist:Uses your feedback to fine-tune the sound
Uses apps, in-clinic adjustments, and possibly remote care
Reviews and adjusts settings as your brain adapts to amplified sound
What is the follow-up plan? How often should I return?
Clarify:How many follow-up appointments are included
How often reviews are recommended (e.g. at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and then annually or as needed)
Whether you can come back easily for extra support if something doesn’t feel quite right
Outcome Measurement & Support
How do you measure success with the hearing aids?
Ask whether they use:Objective verification such as real-ear measurements
Standardised questionnaires about your hearing in daily life
Goal-setting tools (e.g. specific situations you’d like to improve)
What support and warranty services are available?
Clarify:Manufacturer warranty length and what it covers
What happens if there’s a fault or repair
Whether ongoing cleaning, checks and adjustments are included or attract a fee
Lifestyle, Care & Maintenance
What is involved in day-to-day care and maintenance?
Ask about:Cleaning, filters, domes or earmould care
Battery or recharging routines
How to handle sweat, moisture, or water exposure (e.g. swimming, heavy exercise)
Are there lifestyle or environmental considerations I should know about?
For example:Managing very noisy or dusty workplaces
Using hearing protection around loud sounds (concerts, tools, machinery)
How to get the best performance in windy or very busy environments
Cost, Rebates & Trial Periods
Can you explain the cost structure clearly?
Ask for a breakdown of:Hearing aid/device cost
Professional fees for assessment, fitting, and follow-up
What’s included (cleaning, adjustments, repairs under warranty)
What trial periods, guarantees, or cooling-off periods apply?
This might include:A trial or adjustment period with the option to change devices or return them within a set timeframe
Any re-stocking or fitting fees if you decide not to proceed
What is covered by private health insurance, pension or government programs?
Depending on your situation, ask about:Extras cover rebates from your health fund
Eligibility for the Hearing Services Program (HSP)
Any other government rebates or schemes that may apply
Asking these questions helps you gauge how thorough your audiologist is in diagnosis, device selection, personalisation and ongoing care. A good audiologist will welcome these discussions, answer clearly in language you understand, and tailor every part of the process to your hearing profile, lifestyle and goals.
