Hearing Tests in Georgia

Is it time to check your hearing?

Hearing loss usually happens slowly. Most people don't notice it themselves — a spouse, a child, or a friend notices first. If the TV keeps getting louder, if restaurants feel harder to follow than they used to, or if you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves, a hearing test will give you a clear answer.

At Hearing-Doctors, hearing tests are performed by Dr. Gabriel Pitt, Au.D., a Doctor of Audiology trained at the University of South Florida and a third-generation hearing care provider. Our family has been testing Georgia's hearing since 1959.

Free screening or full evaluation — what's the difference?

A free hearing screening is a quick check. It takes just a few minutes and tells you one thing: whether your hearing is in the normal range or not. There is no cost and no obligation. It's the right starting point if you're simply curious or a little concerned.

A diagnostic hearing evaluation is a complete medical test of your hearing. It measures exactly which pitches you hear well and which you don't, how well you understand speech, and how your middle ear is working. The results go on a chart called an audiogram, and Dr. Pitt walks you through what it means in plain language. It's the test we use to diagnose the cause of a hearing problem — not just confirm one exists.

Insurance: hearing assessments performed by an audiologist are covered by Medicare and most health insurance plans. Dr. Pitt accepts Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and many other plans, and as a courtesy we file insurance claims for you. Coverage varies by plan and plan year; patients are responsible for knowing their individual policy. We're happy to help verify your benefits before your visit.

What to expect at your visit

Nothing about a hearing test hurts, and nothing about it is hard. Here's how it goes:

• We talk first. Dr. Pitt asks about your hearing history, your health, and the situations where hearing is hardest for you.
• He looks in your ears. Sometimes the problem is as simple as ear wax — and that can be handled in the office.
• You listen and respond. In a quiet setting, you'll wear headphones and press a button or raise your hand when you hear tones. You'll also repeat some words to test how clearly you understand speech.
• You get answers the same day. Dr. Pitt reviews your results with you before you leave, explains what they mean, and — only if it's actually needed — talks through what could help.

The whole visit usually takes under an hour. Bring your insurance card, a list of your medications, and a family member if you'd like a second set of ears in the room.