You may have heard of it: out-of-category hearing aids. But what does this really mean? On this page, we explain it to you.
The hearing protocol
When you need a hearing aid, the hearing care professional is in principle bound to the so-called hearing protocol. This protocol describes how a hearing aid, for example a hearing aid, cochlear implant or bone conduction hearing aid, must be provided to a client in accordance with the Health Insurance Act. Based on a questionnaire, hearing test and conversation with the hearing care professional, your essential hearing needs are determined and you are assigned to one of five categories. If you choose a hearing aid from the category assigned to you, the health insurance company will reimburse (part of) the cost.
A hearing aid from the outer category
Beyond these five categories, other hearing aids exist. We call these outside category or a purchase on the private market. Out-of-category hearing aids are generally much more advanced with specific functions for various situations. Because these features are not (always) considered necessary, these hearing aids are not covered by the hearing protocol.
The benefits of an out-of-category hearing aid
The great advantage of purchasing a hearing aid on the private market is that you have complete freedom of choice. You are not bound by the hearing protocol and can choose the device and features you want. Thus, the possibilities are endless and you have no restrictions on your needs.
The disadvantages of out-of-category hearing aids
The disadvantage of buying an out-of-category hearing aid is that because you are not buying within the hearing protocol, health insurance will not reimburse it. Therefore, if you choose a hearing aid from the private market, you will have to pay for it entirely yourself.
Out-of-category hearing aids at Horend Goed
Of course you can buy your out of category hearing aids with us. You can choose from Supreme 1, 2 and 3 as well as Ears2u. The latter is the same as Supreme 3, but the Ears2u can be purchased on credit. Feel free to make an appointment with our hearing care specialists for a free, no-obligation hearing test and personal and sincere advice.
An overview of hearing aid categories:
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