Connecticut: Getting a hearing test & buying hearing aids

A state of breathtaking natural beauty and home to some of the best schools in the US, but is their hearing healthcare on the same level? Let's find out!

How many test centers are in Connecticut?

As one of the smallest states in the US by land area, you’ll never be too far from a hearing aid center. At 225, there’s a good number of audiologists and hearing centers in the state to serve the population of over 3.5 million people.

Cities with the best hearing healthcare

We've looked at the largest cities in Connecticut to understand how covered the residents are, comparing the population size with the number of hearing aid centers and audiologists based there.

Looking at Connecticut’s main cities, Waterbury comes out on top in terms of hearing healthcare coverage, followed closely by Stamford. These two cities are miles ahead of the other cities in the state, with comparably low numbers.

Hartford comes in with the lowest ratio of 2.4 audiologists per 100,000 people, with only 3 audiologists to serve the whole city. 

What government support do I have?

If you qualify for Medicaid, there is coverage available to you. This coverage varies depending on different types of hearing aids and across all age ranges, ensuring you can get support if you need it.

Is there a hearing aid trial period?

In Connecticut, the provider must allow the user a thirty-day trial period with the right to return the hearing aids in the same condition as purchased, except for reasonable wear.

Fees for returning hearing aids

The cancellation fee when a buyer returns the hearing aids is up to 12%, so make sure to check this and be aware of it before you sign the contract with your hearing specialist. 

What support do children in Connecticut have?

All children are covered from ages 0 to 21 through national Medicaid coverage. This is specifically under the child health component, The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Program. This covers audiological assessment, hearing aid evaluation and hearing aids when medically required. 

Audiology Doctoral Programs Offered in Connecticut

If you’re looking to study to be an audiologist in Connecticut then there’s only one option. However, nearby states such as New York and Massachusetts have 6 between them, so you won’t have to travel far to get some options.

• University of Connecticut

Support for military veterans

Hearing healthcare support for veterans is nationwide, with 170 centers across the US. However, there is only one in Connecticut. As with the audiological programs, nearby states have higher numbers, with six in New York and three in Massachusetts.

Our guide on VA hearing aids goes into more detail about the support you have available.

How can I get my hearing tested?

A hearing test is the first step towards better hearing health and you can get tested for free in your local area by filling in this form. You'll see a qualified hearing consultant who will run a series of tests to determine if you have any hearing loss, and if you do, show you the best options moving forward.

Read our guide on what to expect from a hearing test, find out more about details, know what to bring with you and how long a hearing test might take.

Overall

Connecticut has exceptional audiological care for its 3.5 million residents. There’s generous government support through Medicaid, mandatory hearing aid trial periods, and a high ratio of audiologists compared to the population.