German for getting a hearing aid
Phrases and vocabulary for the hearing test, choosing and fitting a hearing aid, insurance subsidies, and conversations with the ENT doctor or hearing aid specialist.
First see the ENT doctor, then the hearing aid specialist
For the health insurer to pay a subsidy, you need a prescription from an ENT doctor first. Only then do you go to the hearing aid specialist for selection and fitting.
Know the insurer's fixed contribution
The statutory health insurer pays a fixed amount towards hearing aids. If you want a better model, you pay the difference yourself. Ask the specialist about the insurer-covered device for comparison.
Use the trial period
Hearing aid specialists often offer a trial period of several weeks. Use it to test the device in various everyday situations before committing.
Plan ahead for the ear impression and fitting appointments
After the ENT doctor's prescription, the hearing aid specialist first needs an ear impression to make a custom ear mold. This takes one to two weeks. Also plan for two to three fitting appointments so the device can be fine-tuned to your audiogram. Bring your audiogram and prescription to every appointment.
At the ENT doctor: describing hearing problems
You notice your hearing has worsened and go to the ENT doctor.
My hearing has been worse in my left ear for a few months. Can I have a hearing test done?
Will I need a prescription for a hearing aid after that?
At the specialist: choosing a model
You want to choose a hearing aid and ask about insurance coverage.
Which model does my health insurer cover, and how much does a better device cost on top?
Is there a trial period so I can try the device first?
Having the device adjusted
The hearing aid does not fit well yet or the volume is wrong.
The hearing aid is not quite right yet. Could you please adjust it again?
It sounds too shrill in loud environments. Can that be adjusted?
At the specialist: having an ear impression taken
You have the ENT doctor's prescription and visit the hearing aid specialist for the first time. The specialist explains the next step.
I have the prescription from the ENT doctor here. What happens next, and how long will it take until I receive the hearing aid?
Do you need to take an ear impression first, or can we choose a model straight away?
How do I get a subsidy from the health insurer for a hearing aid?
First you need a prescription from an ENT doctor. Then you go to a hearing aid specialist and choose a device. The health insurer pays the fixed amount directly to the specialist; you pay only the difference.
How do I say the hearing aid does not fit properly?
Say: The hearing aid does not fit properly, or is too loud or too quiet. Could you please adjust it? This is a completely normal request that specialists know well.
What is the difference between an ENT doctor and a hearing aid specialist?
The ENT doctor is a medical specialist who diagnoses hearing problems and issues the prescription. The hearing aid specialist is a trained craftsperson who fits and adjusts the device, but is not a doctor.
How long does the trial-wearing period last, and can I return the device afterwards?
The trial-wearing period usually lasts four to six weeks. During this time you can test the device in various everyday situations. If it does not suit you, you have the right to return it free of charge. Ask the specialist to confirm this in writing before you sign anything.
What do I do if the battery or rechargeable cell runs out quickly?
Single-use batteries for hearing aids (sizes 10, 13, 312, 675) are available from the hearing aid specialist, at the pharmacy, or in a drugstore. For rechargeable models, charge the device every night in its charging station — one charge normally lasts 16 to 24 hours. If the run time is noticeably shorter than stated, have the specialist check the battery.
What does Festbetrag mean and do I always have to pay something extra?
The Festbetrag is the amount that the statutory Krankenkasse contributes towards a hearing aid. It is currently around €784 per device. If you choose the basic insurer-covered model, you pay only the statutory Zuzahlung of €10. If you choose a more expensive model, you pay the difference yourself. Always ask the specialist for the insurer-covered model as a free comparison.
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These texts are for language learning and general orientation only and may be simplified or out of date — they are not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice. Some content is AI-generated. Please confirm important details with the responsible authority or a qualified professional.