One of the biggest myths that many people believe is that hearing aids are the solution to a hearing loss.

Navigating Your Options: Costco or Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center?

05/28/2023 | Industry News, Patient Resources

One of the biggest myths that many people believe is that hearing aids are the solution to hearing loss.

But they’re wrong.

The truth is, great hearing technology is only a small part of the jigsaw to achieving better hearing, the much more important component is working with the right team of experts through a methodical treatment plan.

Yet this misconception results in us receiving phone calls from people asking if we can price match or beat the quotes they have received from big box stores such as Costco.

That’s why I’ve decided to write this article to share some of the key differences between choosing to buy hearing devices from Costco and stepping into better hearing through Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center.

I hope that this article will help you to be more informed and better equipped to make the right decision for you or a loved one, whatever that decision may be.

Comparisons-alaska-costco

Customer Experience: Online Reviews

The first thing that you’ll notice is online reviews.

Although online reviews are not always fair, with people much more inclined to share a bad experience than a good experience, they are a great general reflection of the level of service you can expect.

According to consumeraffairs.com, as of May 2023 Costco Hearing Aid Center has a rating of 3.5 out of 5 for its customer experience.

Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 39 Google Reviews.

The Protection: Repair, Loss, and Damage Warranties

The second big thing that you’ll notice is the repair, loss, and damage warranties – this is how long you’re covered for if your devices need repair or replacement, with Costco offering two years for loss and damage and three years for repairs.

However, Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center not only matches this but goes one step further. We offer a flat three years for both, ensuring that you’re protected with full peace of mind for an extended period.

Quality of Care: Audiologists vs. Hearing Aid Dispensers

You also have the guarantee that the care and support you receive will be from a highly trained and experienced Doctor of Audiology compared to what is commonly a hearing aid dispenser at Costco (which can be learned through an online course).

This ensures that you don’t just receive the best possible care, but your overall hearing health is our priority, not only fitting you with amplification.

This means that by working with Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center, you will receive comprehensive hearing assessments and annual examinations, ensuring that your hearing is being cared for and that your hearing devices are continually optimized to perform at their best.

Whereas Costco offers a hearing test that, according to their website, is to “determine if you could be helped by a hearing aid.”

It’s worth noting that this is not a comprehensive hearing assessment and does not cover all aspects of your hearing health, unlike the services provided by Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center.

The Price Tag: Cost of Hearing Aids

However, one area where Costco has the upper hand is their budget-friendly prices, with hearing aids available from $1,599.99.

While we offer an extensive range of hearing devices at competitive prices, it is not feasible to provide both cutting-edge technology and our exceptional level of audiological service at such a low cost.

However, if the financial barrier to better hearing is a challenge, we want to assure you that we strive to offer the best care within your budget. We offer fully managed insurance benefits that allow us to help you maximize any hearing aid insurance benefits, and we have payment plans available, allowing you to step into premium hearing care for an affordable monthly fee.

Hearing Assessment

Your Convenience: Tele-Audiology Services and More

When it comes to your convenience, Costco may have numerous locations, but they cannot match the personalized and adaptable services we provide. Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center has the upper hand by offering Tele Audiology Services for Remote Appointments which allows you to receive care, support, and adjustments through a simple-to-use app, allowing you to get on-demand help from anywhere in the world.

You can also have curbside service, allowing you to receive help and support without leaving your vehicle, and same-day access to our service center for repairs, cleanings, and adjustments.

Making the Decision

Your decision depends on your preferences.

If your primary concern is solely the price, Costco would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you’re seeking a hearing care partner who can guarantee the utmost level of hearing healthcare and service, we might be the perfect option for you.

We understand that deciding on hearing care is a significant decision, and we want to provide all the information necessary for you to make an informed choice.

If you have any questions or would like anything clarified, please call our friendly team at (907) 522-4357. We are here to support you on your journey to better hearing.

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Dr. Emily E McMahan

Dr. McMahan attended the University of Cincinnati where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2009. She furthered her professional education by obtaining her Doctorate of Audiology from Salus University in Philadelphia in 2013. She completed her residency in Anchorage and has been applying her expertise to her patients in the Pacific Northwest for several years. Whether you need hearing testing, hearing aids, or assistance with managing tinnitus in your daily lives, Dr. McMahan is qualified to assist you!

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