A common misconception about private hearing aids is that there is only one main type to choose from, rather than an entire wide range of designs suitable for every type of ear and every type of hearing need.
Aside from specialist treatments such as cochlear implants, many hearing aids that are on the market are designed to fit behind the ear, as opposed to within the ear itself, being worn on the body or attached to another object of clothing such as spectacles.
There are, of course, many other options for discreet hearing aids through seeing a private audiologist, but it does beg the question as to why one type has become so popular and all-encompassing that it is the design that immediately comes to mind.
There are a few reasons for this, coming down to a mix of availability, versatility and fitting complexity.
Functional Versatility
The biggest reason why behind-the-ear hearing aids are so common is because as a system they can be very readily modified for a wide range of different hearing needs.
There are tiny mini BTEs that are almost impossible to notice whilst worn as well as slightly large but significantly more powerful devices that have support for technologies such as induction loops, telecoils and higher outputs.
Whilst you can get in-the-ear systems that can have some of these features, it is much easier (and therefore less expensive) to fit them to a more universal design such as a BTE.
Easy Long Term Use
BTE hearing aids have historically tended to be easier to use and last longer than in-the-ear systems, partly a result of their larger size and simpler, more universal shape.
It is much easier to repair a BTE system or replace it outright if it gets too damaged. They can often use standard coin batteries that are easy to replace without the assistance of an audiologist, and they often have switches that are easier to see and easier to use than the ones on an in-the-ear system.
Because of all of these factors, BTE systems are particularly popular for childhood hearing aids outside of when a cochlear implant is needed. They are easily tweaked as required, can be adjusted and replaced more easily as a child grows and their needs change, and are strong enough to handle the rigours of playtime.
Standardisation
The biggest reason why BTE hearing aids are so common is because they are the standard supplied by the NHS and have been since at least 2005.
Whilst there are some rare occasions where the NHS will supply in-the-ear hearing aids, the overwhelming majority will be BTE, and if you have particular needs that make a BTE hearing aid a less-than-ideal option, then a private audiologist is a better option.
The best choice of hearing aid design is the one that is comfortable enough for you to wear any time that you need it, which may not always be a BTE solution, and modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity are typically only available at present with a private audiologist.
