Many people believe that the solution to a hearing loss is a hearing aid. But we know and our patients know that the truth is that great hearing technology is only a part of the puzzle to achieving better hearing, with the much more important part being the right team of experts and treatment plan.
So it’s no surprise that we regularly receive phone calls from people asking if we can price match Costco or what the key differences are. That’s why I’ve written this article to highlight the key differences and help you choose who to work with, depending on your preferences.
The aim of this is to ensure that you’re informed to make the best possible decision for yourself or on a loved one’s behalf, whether you choose to partner with our team at Duncan Hearing or you choose to purchase devices from Costco.
Here is a breakdown of the key differences.
The first side-by-side comparison is Online Reviews.
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.
Duncan Hearing Healthcare has an average rating of 5 out of 5, based on 227 Google Reviews, across our three locations.
The second and third lines share the differences in the repair and loss and damage warranties—this is the length of time that you’re covered if you require repairs or a replacement device, with Costco offering two years for loss and damage and a respectable three years for repairs.
But with Duncan Hearing Healthcare, you’re not just getting a warranty, you’re getting a commitment to ensure that your hearing aids are always in top shape.
Our dedicated staff is committed to your hearing health and will make every effort to promptly resolve any issues that may arise. Duncan Hearing Healthcare offers a flat three years on both your repair warranty (with a hearing aid center for same-day cleanings and repairs and maintenance) and a three-year loss and damage warranty, with loaners available to ensure that you’re never without hearing help.
By partnering with Duncan Hearing Healthcare, you will also receive comprehensive hearing assessments and annual examinations. This ensures that your hearing health is constantly monitored and that your devices are optimized to perform at their best.
This includes a multistep testing process that tests all levels of your hearing health. Costco, on the other hand, offers a hearing test to, according to their website, “determine if you could be helped by a hearing aid.”
Unlike Costco, we aim to do more than just determine whether a hearing aid could be of help. Our goal is to understand the underlying cause of your hearing loss, identify any potential health concerns, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
However, one area that attracts many people to Costco is their low prices, with hearing aids available from as low as $1,119.
Although we have access to all levels of hearing devices, including many low-level ones, we are not able to offer both technology and our high level of audiological service for this low fee.
However, for those of us that have financial limitations, we do offer fully managed insurance benefits. This means that we’ll help you to maximize any hearing aid insurance benefits. We also have payment plans available, allowing you to step into better hearing from as little as $99.
Our goal is to make better hearing accessible to as many people as possible. We firmly believe that cost should not be a barrier to quality hearing care, which is why we strive to provide a range of affordable options.
But one of the biggest benefits of stepping into better hearing with Duncan Hearing Healthcare is the “minimum future guaranteed value” on your hearing devices, which means that you can upgrade to new hearing technology at any time and receive a significant trade-in value.
And when it comes to convenience, by partnering with Duncan Hearing Healthcare you can access “Virtual Hearing Care” that allows you to receive support, help, and adjustments remotely—allowing you to access your audiologist from anywhere in the world.
This feature, unavailable at Costco, brings your hearing care professional right to your living room. Whether you’re traveling, can’t make it to the clinic, or simply prefer the comfort of your own home, your hearing care needs can be met.
You also have the option of contact-free curbside service, allowing you to receive help and support without leaving your vehicle.
The Summary
The most important thing to us is that you do something. Whether you choose to address your hearing challenges with us or visit Costco, we’re just happy that you’re taking the right steps to improve your hearing health and quality of life.
If you have any questions or would like anything clarified, call our friendly team at your local office.
Fall River: 508-674-3334 | Centerville: 508-862-0255 | Dartmouth: 508-910-2221 | Falmouth: 508-548-8123