Audiology

Common services and transparent pricing

Pricing estimates are modeled from the current OpenDoc specialty taxonomy, visit archetypes, and transparent cash-pay assumptions. Posted provider pricing should be treated as the source of truth whenever it is available. Pricing last reviewed April 8, 2026.

• Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation — $150–$300: Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation is a common audiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
• Diagnostic Audiogram — $75–$175: Diagnostic Audiogram is a diagnostic audiology service used to clarify the condition before treatment decisions are made.
• Hearing Aid Fitting & Programming — $200–$500: Hearing Aid Fitting & Programming is a procedure-oriented audiology service with transparent pricing shown before anything happens.
• Hearing Aid Adjustment / Reprogramming — $75–$150: Hearing Aid Adjustment / Reprogramming is a procedure-oriented audiology service with transparent pricing shown before anything happens.
• Tinnitus Evaluation & Management — $150–$350: Tinnitus Evaluation & Management is a common audiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
• Videonystagmography (VNG) Balance Testing — $250–$500: Videonystagmography (VNG) Balance Testing is a diagnostic audiology service used to clarify the condition before treatment decisions are made.
• Cochlear Implant Candidacy Evaluation — $300–$600: Cochlear Implant Candidacy Evaluation is a common audiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
• Cochlear Implant Programming / Mapping — $150–$350: Cochlear Implant Programming / Mapping is a procedure-oriented audiology service with transparent pricing shown before anything happens.
• Tympanometry & Acoustic Reflex Testing — $50–$125: Tympanometry & Acoustic Reflex Testing is a diagnostic audiology service used to clarify the condition before treatment decisions are made.
• Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test — $75–$150: Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test is a diagnostic audiology service used to clarify the condition before treatment decisions are made.
• Auditory Processing Disorder Evaluation — $300–$600: Auditory Processing Disorder Evaluation is a common audiology entry point on OpenDoc with transparent pricing before booking.
• Cerumen (Earwax) Removal — $75–$150: Cerumen (Earwax) Removal is a procedure-oriented audiology service with transparent pricing shown before anything happens.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hearing test cost without insurance?

A diagnostic audiogram costs $75 to $175 cash-pay, while a comprehensive hearing evaluation including audiogram, speech testing, and tympanometry typically costs $150 to $300. These prices are often less than what insured patients pay after copay, especially since many insurance plans classify hearing services as a limited benefit.

How much do hearing aids cost without insurance?

Hearing aid prices vary widely based on technology level. Basic hearing aids start at $800 to $1,200 per ear, mid-range at $1,500 to $2,500 per ear, and premium at $2,500 to $3,500 per ear. Over-the-counter hearing aids are available for $200 to $800 per pair for mild to moderate loss. Professional fitting and programming ($200 to $500) is separate and essential for optimal performance.

Do I need a referral to see an audiologist?

No referral is needed on OpenDoc. Audiologists are direct-access providers in most states. You can book a hearing evaluation without seeing your primary care doctor first. If medical treatment or surgery is needed, your audiologist will coordinate a referral to an ENT physician.

What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing instrument specialist?

An audiologist holds a doctoral degree (Au.D.) and is trained in comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders, including fitting hearing aids, managing tinnitus, and evaluating for cochlear implants. A hearing instrument specialist is licensed to test hearing for the purpose of selling and fitting hearing aids but cannot diagnose medical conditions or manage balance disorders.

Can tinnitus be treated?

While there is no cure for most forms of tinnitus, effective management strategies exist. Audiologists can provide tinnitus retraining therapy, sound therapy, hearing aids with tinnitus masking features, and cognitive behavioral approaches. A tinnitus evaluation ($150 to $350) identifies the type and severity to guide treatment. About 80% of patients experience meaningful improvement with proper management.

How do I know if I need a hearing aid?

A comprehensive hearing evaluation will determine the type and degree of hearing loss. Generally, hearing aids are recommended for mild to profound sensorineural hearing loss that impacts daily communication. Signs include difficulty hearing in noisy environments, frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, and feeling fatigued from straining to listen.

What is a balance test and why would I need one?

Videonystagmography (VNG) is the primary balance test, costing $250 to $500 cash-pay. It evaluates the vestibular (inner ear balance) system using infrared cameras to track eye movements during specific maneuvers. You may need this test if you experience vertigo, dizziness, unsteadiness, or frequent falls. The inner ear is responsible for approximately 85% of balance disorders.

Does insurance cover hearing aids?

Most private insurance plans provide minimal or no hearing aid coverage for adults. Medicare does not cover hearing aids, and Medicaid coverage varies by state. Even plans with hearing benefits often limit coverage to $500 to $1,000 per ear every 3 to 5 years, which covers only a fraction of the cost. This makes cash-pay pricing on OpenDoc a transparent alternative without surprise exclusions.