BuyHear.com | Name Brand Online Hearing Aid Controversy?

Why is BuyHear.com so controversial?

#1. They are not authorized sellers of hearing aids.

BuyHear.com does not have manufacturer accounts with the Name Brands hearing aid manufacturers that they sell.  These brands include Phonak, Signia, ReSound, Oticon, and Sonic.  Despite manufacturers making public statements against the practices of BuyHear.com, they continue to sell their devices online.  However, they must obtain these devices from clinics that have authorized accounts with these manufacturers.  

#2.  They have long wait times for hearing aids.  There can be long wait times to obtain devices from BuyHear.com because they have to rely on irregular distribution  channels.  Since they don't acquire devices directly from manufacturers, they can't get devices as quickly as a hearing aid clinic.

#3.  Selling hearing aids online is illegal in some states.  For instance, in Florida, you must be properly tested and fit with hearing aids.  Because you cannot receive a proper testing and fitting from any online hearing aid retailer, selling devices through an online website is illegal in their state.

#4.  They can't perform Real Ear Measures.  Real Ear Measures are the only way to ensure your hearing aids are fit and programmed correctly to your hearing loss prescription.  Without sitting in a hearing care providers office, you cannot have these Verification Measures performed.  No matter how much a company claims to provide "customized services" you will never achieve your maximum potential with hearing aids without Verifying your prescription with Real Ear Measures.   To learn more about Real Ear Measures, watch the following video:  https://youtu.be/cHR0Oa6I-wY

‍Everyone should have the right to purchase hearing aids through whatever outlet they prefer whether it is online or through a traditional clinic.  You just need to make sure you understand the pros and cons of whatever route you ultimately choose.