August 12, 2008
Contact: Adam Sohn, AARP, 202-434-2560, asohn@aarp.org
Today, AARP Services and HearUSA (AMEX:EAR) one of the nation’s largest hearing care providers, announced a new relationship to supply unique hearing care solutions designed to meet the needs of AARP’s diverse 39+ million members.
According to the Better Hearing Institute, more than 31 million Americans are hearing impaired including 10 million baby boomers, yet research indicates that only 20 percent of those affected seek treatment. A recent AARP member survey found that approximately six million AARP members reported hearing loss.
“Hearing loss is a growing, cross-generational health issue affecting people of all ages,” said John Wider, Executive Vice President, AARP Services Inc. “This innovative relationship with HearUSA will give AARP members access to a specialized hearing wellness program that focuses on education and quality of care.”
"This relationship offers a unique opportunity to dramatically expand awareness of hearing loss in America and will offer easy and affordable access to professional solutions,” said Stephen Hansbrough, CEO and Chairman of HearUSA, Inc.”
Through the HearUSA relationship AARP members will have a choice of specialized hearing care solutions with flexible product features along with access to thousands of hearing care professionals, including audiologists and hearing instrument specialists.
The new hearing program will include unique features for AARP members including state-of-the-art technologies, an extended warranty, battery supplies, aural rehabilitation as well as on-going consultation with the patient and family, and a significant savings when compared to other hearing programs. The new program and products are scheduled to become available beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008.
“It gives me great personal satisfaction to offer all qualified providers and manufacturers the opportunity to participate in this tremendous program,” Hansbrough added.
AARP Services selected HearUSA for its demonstrated commitment to improving both the quality and the process by which hearing care is delivered. AARP members who participate in the program will receive hearing care services from HearUSA’s large network of hearing care professionals and best in class hearing aid technology, education and follow up care.
“HearUSA’s vision to make hearing care a medical necessity reflects a cultural fit with AARP’s commitment to ensuring the health and well-being for our members,” said David Mathis, AARP Service’s new Senior Vice President of Health Products and Services.
“Hearing aids today are much smaller and more comfortable than ever before,” said Dr. Cindy Beyer, audiologist and Senior Vice President of HearUSA. “These new products can be very effective in helping people enjoy improved communications with family and friends, while meeting the high demands of a busy, active lifestyle. Thanks to advanced technology, consumers with most levels of hearing loss can maximize their hearing potential.”
In the coming months, AARP members will be able to learn more about the hearing care program and benefits through the convenience of the telephone and web.
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