Hearing Aids

At UNMH Audiology, our experienced, compassionate audiologists help adults and children find the best hearing aid option. We'll guide you based on individual needs, lifestyle and level of hearing loss.

We offer five main types of hearing aids. The audiologist will walk you through the decision process to find the best choice for your situation. Our team can also answer any specific questions about how to select, use and maintain your hearing device.

In-the-Ear & Behind-the-Ear Options

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

BTEs are typically appropriate for mild to profound hearing loss. This style is a good choice for a child or people with excessive moisture and earwax. Directional microphones, multiple listening programs, tele-coil and Bluetooth capability are available.

Receiver-In-The-Ear (RITE)

RITEs keep your ear canal open to reduce the feeling of being “plugged up”. RITE and “Slim Tube” hearing devices are the most discreet hearing aids. Your degree of hearing loss will determine if a RITE will work for your situation.

Custom In-The-Ear (ITE)

Custom ITEs are used for cases of hearing loss ranging from mild to severe. This type of hearing aid fills the outer portion of the ear. Features can include directional microphones, multiple listening programs, a tele-coil or Bluetooth capability.

In-the-Canal Options

In-The-Canal (ITC)

Smaller than the full-shell ITE, ITC hearing aids are appropriate for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. Features may be somewhat limited due to size. This option requires a good ability to move your hands.

Completely-In-The-Canal

These devices are the most discreet. If you don't want people to see your hearing aid, completely-in-the-canal options are typically best. Eligibility is based on your degree of hearing loss and your ability to use your hands well.

Hearing Aid FAQs

Hearing aids range from $500 to $4,000 depending on the level of hearing loss and the technology you choose.

All children with New Mexico’s Medicaid or NM HMOs are covered for two hearing aids.

Medicaid usually covers adults for one hearing aid. Private HMOs vary in coverage. Please check with your health insurance provider to check your benefits coverage.

We understand that working with insurance and benefits can be stressful. Our patient care coordinators (PCCs) can help you sort out your benefits.

Every hearing aid comes with a warranty between one and two years. They can be renewed for a fraction of the price of a replacement device.

We have options available, which we will review with you at your hearing aid evaluation.

This form states there is no medical reason that you can't wear hearing aids. Any doctor can sign a medical clearance for adults. For children, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor must sign it. A medical clearance form is needed for legal and insurance coverage.

According to New Mexico state law, there is a 45-day trial period that allows you to try hearing instruments. A service fee will be applied if you return a hearing aid. Exchanges are not subject to a service fee.

The hearing aid, ear mold (if applicable), initial supply of batteries (two packages), follow-up programming (two per year of warranty), repairs and cleaning services for the life of the warranty.

UNMH audiologists do not receive commission on hearing aid sales. Our goal is solely to improve your quality of life by helping you hear and communicate better.

Visit a UNMH Audiologist

Audiology Clinic - Lomas:
UNMH Main Hospital
2211 Lomas Blvd. NE
5th Floor [PDF]
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87106

Phone: 505-272-3535

Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

Email: audiology@salud.unm.edu

Audiology Clinic - Academy:
NorthEast Heights Clinic
7801 Academy Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109

Phone: 505-272-3535

Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

Email: audiology@salud.unm.edu

You will need a referral to see a UNM hearing specialist. Patients who are on Medicare need a doctor's order. When you get your referral or doctor's order, call UNM Health at 505-272-3535 to schedule an appointment. Search for a UNMH audiologist.