enable the audiologistor dispenserto select and fit a hearing instrument to your individualneeds. If you have reservations about your abilityto adapt to amplification, you should inquireabout the availability of a trial-rentalor purchase-optionprogram. Many hearing instrument dispensers now offer programs that permit you to wear a hearinginstrument for a period of time for a nominalfee after which you may decide if you want to purchasethe hearing instrument. Federal law restricts the sale of hearing instrumentsto those individualswho have obtaineda medical evaluationfrom a licensedphysician. Federal law permits a fully informedadult to sign a waiver statement decliningthe medicalevaluation for religious or personal beliefsthat precludeconsultation with a physician. The exerciseof such a waiver is not in your best health interestand its use is strongly discouraged.
Children With Hearing Loss
In addition to seeing a physician for a medical evaluation, a child with a hearingloss should be directed to an audiologistfor evaluation and rehabilitation since hearingloss may cause problems in language developmentand the educational and social growthof a child. An audiologist is qualified by training and experience to assist in the evaluation and rehabilitation of a child with a hearingloss.