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amplification, you should inquire about the availability
of a trial-rental or purchase-option program. Many
hearing instrument dispensers now offer programs
that permit you to wear a hearing instrument for a
period of time for a nominal fee after which you may
decide if you want to purchase the hearing
instrument. Federal law restricts the sale of hearing
instruments to those individuals who have obtained a
medical evaluation from a licensed physician. Federal
law permits a fully informed adult to sign a waiver
statement declining the medical evaluation for
religious or personal beliefs that preclude
consultation with a physician. The exercise of such a
waiver is not in your best health interest and its use is
strongly discouraged.
Children With Hearing Loss
In addition to seeing a physician for a medical
evaluation, a child with a hearing loss should be
directed to an audiologist for evaluation and
rehabilitation since hearing loss may cause problems
in language development and the educational and
social growth of a child. An audiologist is qualified by
training and experience to assist in the evaluation and
rehabilitation of a child with a hearing loss.
