Comprehensive Audiology: ‘we’re still here for you’

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Hearing loss could cause anxiety for a person at any time, but even more so during this time of physical isolation, said Dr. Esther Fogel.

That’s why, although her Lynbrook practice, Comprehensive Audiology, is currently closed due to the coronavirus, she is still taking calls and emails to assist her patients however she can.

“During this time, many of us are home alone or with one family member, and that impacts people with hearing loss,” she explained. “Those with hearing loss, of any severity, rely a lot on face to face contact and visual cues.

At the recommendations of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Audiology and Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Fogel closed the Comprehensive Audiology office on March 23 and rescheduled all appointments. However, there are several ways that Fogel is maintaining contact with existing patients and treating new ones:

  • Phone call — Call (516) 226-2141with questions, concerns or for a phone consultation with Fogel.
  • Video appointment — Schedule a virtual, 30-minute consultation. Talk face to face with Fogel to discuss hearing health, history, symptoms and treatment options. For existing patients, Fogel can help troubleshoot hearing aids. Patients should have access to a computer, iPad or laptop with camera, microphone, email and reliable Internet access.
  • Drop off/Pick up — If a hearing aid is in need of an emergency repair, patients can schedule a drop off and pick up time.
  • Shipping/Mail — If a patient needs hearing aid supplies or batteries, they can contact Fogel and arrange for it to be shipped or mailed to the patient’s home.

In addition, the federal government is currently issuing free caption telephones, Fogel noted. Fogel has partnered with Caption Call, and anyone who needs one can contact her directly.

She also stressed the importance of staying connected during this time and encouraged those with hearing loss to video call their loved ones so they can see visual cues. “We’re truly trying to be in contact,” Fogel said, “and gives ideas on how to communicate with family and friends.”

For more information, contact Fogel at (516) 387-4000 or efogel@comprehensiveaudiology.com.