What You Should Know Before Buying Hearing Aids

Choosing between budget hearing aids, OTC devices, hybrid models, and professionally fitted prescription hearing aids can feel confusing—especially when prices vary so widely. In this video, Dr. Garrett breaks down why these options perform differently, how hearing aid fitting affects speech clarity, and what truly determines whether a device will help you hear more comfortably in daily life.

Dr. Layne Garrett has over two decades of experience as the audiologist and founder of Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus. His work centers on accurate diagnostic testing, tinnitus treatment, and best-practice hearing aid fitting, supported by more than 14 Best of State awards in Auditory Services and authorship of three books on hearing and tinnitus.
Most people are surprised to learn that the biggest difference between devices isn’t the price—it’s how precisely the hearing aids are fitted and verified for your ears. Evidence suggests that processes like Real Ear Measurement play a major role in speech clarity, listening comfort, and long-term satisfaction. This video explains what you need to know before choosing any hearing technology.

What You’ll Learn
Key differences between OTC, hybrid, and prescription hearing aids
Why hearing aid fitting and verification impact speech clarity
What research indicates about long-term hearing aid use
How evidence-based adjustments reduce listening effort
Questions to ask any provider before investing in hearing technology

Visit the Hearing Learning Center
Explore evidence-based guides, practical explanations, and expert insights:
https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-...

Schedule a Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation
If you’re in Northern Utah and want a full exam with best-practice verification and individualized recommendations, you can schedule online:
https://utahhearingaids.com/

Why This Matters
Hearing aids are most effective when programmed and verified using best practices. Accurate fitting supports speech clarity, reduces auditory load, and improves communication confidence. When your devices match your hearing loss precisely, conversations become more comfortable and less tiring.

SEO Chapters (with Micro-Embeddings)
0:00 — Why Hearing Aid Prices Are Confusing (speech clarity)
1:58 — OTC Hearing Aids and Safety Considerations (auditory load)
4:20 — Hybrid Hearing Models and Remote Adjustments
6:05 — Prescription Hearing Aids and Professional Care (SNR deficits)
8:12 — Real Ear Measurement and Verified Fitting
10:40 — How to Choose the Right Hearing Provider
12:15 — Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Hashtags
#hearingaids #hearingloss #otchearingaids