FAQs

An audiologist is a professional that holds a Master or Doctorate degree that evaluates, diagnoses, and treats hearing loss. They prescribe, fit and dispense hearing aids. Here at Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, the audiologists hold Doctorate degrees. Audiologist must be licensed in all states to practice (American Academy of Audiology).

A few indicators that you may be experiencing hearing loss include:

• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Losing parts of conversations when there is a lot of background noise
• Often feeling that people mumble when they speak
• Increasing the volume on the TV or radio to very high levels in order to hear comfortably

Your audiologist will recommend a hearing aid based on such factors as the type and severity of your hearing loss, affordability, and the noise you experience in your day-to-day environment. There is no one type of hearing aid that will work for all patients, but your audiologist has the experience to offer a hearing aid that is best for your needs and comfortable to wear long-term. Currently, our audiologists work with such manufacturers as Oticon, Phonak, Starkey and Signia.

It takes time to adjust to hearing aids. Sounds, such as one’s own voice, will be different because they are heard through the hearing aids. A person may hear sounds they have not heard for a while and the brain will learn to adjust to these background sounds.  Listening skills will improve gradually as one becomes more accustomed to amplification.

Bluetooth technology automatically connects 2 devices to each other wirelessly. Hearing aids that have Bluetooth technology can connect to cellphones, TV, automobile interfaces, landline phones, iPads, and computers. When hearing aids are connected to the cell phone, the phone can be used as a volume control and program changer. In addition, patients can stream music, movies, and phone calls directly to their hearing aids up to 50 feet away.

The Hearing Service Center at Kaiser Permanente offers a rich comprehensive plan with personalized service and inclusive follow-up appointments. Our comprehensive plan includes:

• Competitive pricing
• 30-day trial period
• 3-year warranty on repairs and service
• 3-year loss and damage warranty
• Multiple locations state-wide

For more details about your health benefits, call our Membership Service Call Center at: 1-808 432-5955, 1-800 966-5955 (toll free neighbor Island) or 1-877 447-5990 (TTY 711 for the deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired)

Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

No, the Hearing Service Center welcomes the general public, in addition to Kaiser Permanente members. However, a current hearing test completed within the last 6 months is needed. Kaiser Permanente members can have a Kaiser Permanente audiologist conduct a hearing test, and non-members should have their hearing tested by a licensed audiologist through their health care provider.

Unfortunately, no. However, patients with outside insurance can pay for our services in full and then submit for reimbursement to their insurance company.

Kaiser Permanente does not provide any payment plans. However, we accept credit cards such as Visa, Mastecard and American Express.

Custom hearing aids arrive within two to three weeks after your hearing aid consultation. All other hearing aids arrive one week after your hearing aid consultation.