Categories
Hearing Aids

6 Tips for New Hearing Aid Users

New hearing aids make a huge change in your hearing and lifestyle but at first they can sometimes be overwhelming. Here are a few things to help you adjust to your new hearing aids and make the most of them.

Be Patient

It is not uncommon for new hearing aid wearers to feel overwhelmed or distracted by the hearing aids themselves and the newly heightened hearing levels. Give yourself some time to get used to your new hearing aids and all the new sounds you are hearing. However, if after a few days you find you still aren’t getting used to them, reach out to your doctor of audiology to get them checked out.

Leave Them Be

You might be tempted to mess with the volume adjustment and amplification on your hearing aids but avoid changing these settings too much. Most hearing aids will automatically adjust to the volume levels of different environments. Other times, you may increase the amplification beyond the scope of the natural hearing range which is not good for everyday use. As you get used to your hearing aids, you will be more accurately able to determine whether the settings need to be changed and if so, ask your audiologist for help.

Avoid Loud Environments

When you first start to wear hearing aids, for the first day or two it is best to only wear them in quiet environments. Avoid large and noisy social spaces and slowly introduce your hearing aids to those social settings. The sudden volume change can be overwhelming, so it is best to ease into things.

Start Slowly

Similarly, you should start by wearing your hearing aids only a few hours a day so that you are not overwhelmed by the noise levels around you. There are many things you might not have heard for a while, such as the humming of your fridge, birds chirping, your phone ringing, etc. Your audiologist will help you develop a plan for how much time you should start with and how much you should increase that by each day.

Read Aloud

It’s not uncommon for people with hearing loss to speak at loud volumes and when you first start wearing hearing aids, you may find that your voice is distractingly loud. Reading aloud is a great way to regain your voice control and adjust to the effects of your hearing aids.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Properly caring for your hearing aids is important because it will give them a long lifespan. Regularly clean your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth and use a pick to clear away earwax and other debris. You should also remove your hearing aids when you shower or swim since water can build up in them and impact their effectiveness. If your hearing aids need minor repairs, our team can help.

Sign Up for the H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program

Everyone should have access to hearing aids and treatment for their hearing loss and that is the basis of our H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program. At the Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we are dedicated to comprehensive and affordable care with real results. Our Doctors of Audiology will conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation and then use those results to determine the best hearing aids that fit your needs and comfort level. Schedule an appointment today by calling our office or book your appointment here.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing aids, download our FREE Insider’s Guide on how to finally hear better.

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Local Services

Hearing Aid Services In Westfield, NJ

At only about 25 minutetes from Westfield, NJ, Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is available to the residents in the town. At our office, we offer a variety of hearing services including hearing assessments, hearing aids, hearing aid repairs and fittings, central auditory processing evaluation, and our proprietary H.E.A.R Method Treatment Program.

Adult Hearing Assessment

An adult hearing assessment is a comprehensive hearing evaluation used to determine what your overall health looks like, if you have a hearing impairment, and if you do have hearing loss, to what extent it is.

The assessment begins with learning your health history along with any other factors that might contribute to your hearing impairment. This can include medications you’re on, certain lifestyle choices, family history, or any injuries you may have experienced.

Next is the ear examination. It’s done by your Doctor of Audiology. They simply look at your ear for any obstructions or damage to the ear.

After that, is the hearing test which is completely pain-free and relatively easy. All you have to do is listen to the best of your ability.

Once your Doctor of Audiology has the results of your hearing assessment, they can better build a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Hearing Aids

Because there are so many different types of hearing aids, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s where your Doctor of Audiology and our QuickSIN™ test come it. Together, they can determine the right hearing aid type for you.

During the test, you get to try on a variety of hearing aids so you find the best fit and level of hearing correction for your needs. Since hearing aids are an investment, you want to be sure you find the ones that are right for you.

Hearing aid technology has gotten more and more advanced over the years but most still consist of a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker, and they are either worn in the ear or behind the ear.

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we offer a variety of hearing aid styles and manufacturers so you can find the one that fits your exact hearing needs.  The manufacturers we offer include:

  • Starkey
  • Oticon
  • Widex
  • Phonak
  • ReSound

Hearing Aid Repairs & Fittings

If your hearing aids need repairs, we also offer that at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey as well. Whether you have a simple repair and we do it in the office or it’s a more substantial repair and you need help sending the hearing aid to the manufacturer, we can help you get your hearing aid repaired and back to your everyday life as soon as possible.

And if you need to be without your hearing aid for any length of time, we can help guide you through your day-to-day so you can still live your life while your hearing aid is being repaired.

Central Auditory Processing Evaluation

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a condition where the brain and ears have trouble communicating with one another. It typically shows up in young children but can be difficult to diagnose because it has similar symptoms as ADHD and ADD.

Some of the symptoms include difficulty concentrating, trouble identifying the meaning of certain spoken words, issues remembering instructions, and speech and language difficulties.

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we work with speech-language pathologists, school resource officers, psychologists, and occupational therapists to offer the most comprehensive CAPD evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment available.

H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we have a proprietary treatment program called the H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program. It was founded on our four principles: hearing goals, engagement, analytics, and real results.

We want to be sure we set realistic goals for your treatment, have an honest conversation with you and your family about your treatment plan, and analyze your test results so you get a customized treatment plan that fits your specific hearing needs and gets you the results you’re looking for.

About Westfield, NJ

Westfield, NJ is located in Union County and only a short drive from Manhattan. It has a population of just under 31,000 and most well-known for its downtown area, school system, and the short commute to those working in NYC. It’s also known as the home of Charles Addams, the creator of The Addams Family cartoon series.

Categories
Hearing Aids

The 5 Best Hearing Aid Manufacturers

If you’re considering your options with hearing aids, it can seem a little overwhelming. There are many different brands, types, and models of hearing aids available so selecting the right one for your brain hearing needs can require some help. Although a Doctor of Audiology is the best person to help you select a the best hearing aid for you, it can be helpful to know a little about some of the hearing aid names you’ll come across. Each hearing aid manufacturer will have different benefits and technologies to select from, so here’s a guide to the five best hearing aid manufacturers on the market.

Oticon

Oticon hearing aids are designed to help reduce the cognitive strain and decline that comes with hearing loss. By freeing up more “brain space” to devote to daily activities, Oticon hearing aids can help improve mental fatigue, speech problems, social isolation, and low energy levels. Oticon is best known for their More™ line, which includes small-but-powerful, rechargeable hearing aids and Oticon’s Xceed technology for those who need more power to treat their hearing loss. Oticon even offers remote control through its smartphone app which help you connect to assistive listening and smart technologies in your home.

Starkey®

Starkey® is an American hearing aid manufacturer with a wide variety of hearing aid types. While they offer traditional types like behind-the-ear models, they also offer modern invisible in-the-canal devices for the best cosmetic features. Additionally, they offer technology for tinnitus patients as well as hearing aid technologies designed to pair with iPhone devices. Starkey is one of the most well-known brands in the United States and offers reliable, American-made hearing aids.

Phonak

Phonak remains an innovator in the hearing aid industry, offering the world’s first waterproof rechargeable hearing aid, for example. Phonak also offers smart adaptive technology, so your hearing aids automatically tailor their output based on your environment. It also offers unique technologies specifically developed for children or people with single-sided deafness. All Phonak devices are compatible with the myPhonak app which offers benefits like remote support from your Doctor of Audiology, real-time adjustments, battery status, and feedback tracking which is shareable with your hearing team.

ReSound

ReSound offers some of the best technological compatibility in the industry. It also offers real-time adaptability and streaming specifically compatible with Android users. This means that, with ReSound devices, you can use your hearing aids just like headphones. ReSound has developed a tinnitus relief app to help relieve symptoms through sound therapy, relaxation exercises, and meditation guidance – even streamed through your hearing aids. Additionally, ReSound’s Smart 3D app can pair with your hearing aid devices to improve speech understanding through your smartphone or smart watch.

Widex®

Widex® is known as the most quality option for hearing loss patients. The Widex Moment model is their most prestigious and offers iPhone compatibility with an unparalleled listening experience. Widex’s goal is to provide the most true-to-life sound experience possible even in noisy environments like crowded restaurants, sports events, or concert venues. Widex hearing aids even come with technology developed to preserve the unique sounds of the human voice, so you don’t lose anything by using hearing aids. For new hearing aid patients and experienced ones alike, Widex is the best option for those whom quality sound is integral to daily life.

Schedule an Appointment

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we work with all the best in hearing aid brands. Our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program begins by testing your brain hearing ability and through evidence-based testing determine what the best hearing aid is for you.  Schedule your appointment today.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing aids, download our FREE Insider’s Guide on how to finally hear better.

Categories
Hearing Challenges

Causes and Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease

Hundreds of thousands of Americans suffer from a rare inner ear disorder called Meniere’s disease that can be debilitating to their lifestyle. If you’re experiencing symptoms of dizziness, spinning, or balance issues that isn’t caused by other identifiable conditions, you may be one of these rare people with the disease. We’ll share the common symptoms, risk factors, and treatments for Meniere’s disease.

What is Meniere’s Disease?

This simple question is one that doctors and audiologists are still figuring out. The term “disease” may not be the best word to describe it, as there is no indication of a viral infection, genetic factors, or even symptoms that accompany the condition in all patients. It is most commonly diagnosed for patients who have recurring episodes of vertigo for seemingly no other reason.

Causes of Meniere’s Disease

We don’t know what causes Meniere’s disease, but researchers suggest that a person’s genetics could play a factor. Others see a link to autoimmune disorders in which the body attacks its own cells, and still others think allergies could play a role. In some cases of Meniere’s disease, patients have abnormal amounts of fluid within the inner ear that can cause the symptoms of vertigo.

Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease

A few key characteristics of Meniere’s disease is that it’s recurrent and involves vertigo. Additional symptoms reported by patients with the condition include:

  • Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
  • Tinnitus
  • Hearing loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Trembling and sudden weakness
  • Nausea
  • Balance problems
  • Increased heart rate
  • Diarrhea

People can have just one or two of these symptoms during an episode of Meniere’s, which can last between 20 minutes to several hours. This is what makes the disease so debilitating, since you don’t know when an attack might happen, normal activities such as driving become dangerous to the patient and to others.

Episodes can recur over the course of several days to once every few months. If the condition is left untreated, it can intensify and become more frequent.

How to Treat Meniere’s Disease

Treating Meniere’s disease is all about treating the specific symptoms that a person is experiencing. For issues such as tinnitus and hearing loss, a comprehensive hearing evaluation can provide a hearing solution to mask or solve these problems. Patients who experience pressure or fullness may be able to benefit from a Meniett device, which is designed to equalize pressure in the middle ear and may help prevent sensations of dizziness.

Additional treatments can be more holistic, such as changing lifestyle habits like caffeine or alcohol intake, as well as treating anxiety or fear that may make Meniere’s episodes worse.

Comprehensive Auditory Care in New Jersey

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program will help you manage the symptoms of Meniere’s disease get your life back with custom solutions that work seamlessly with your lifestyle. This program ensures you get the right tests performed regularly to fully understand your hearing health and whether your treatment is working to perfection. We focus not just on fitting and fine-tuning hearing aids, but also with understanding how your brain is hearing. Find a solution to your Meniere’s symptoms by calling our office or contacting us online today.

Categories
Hearing Loss

Four Surprising Effects of Hearing Loss

When people think about hearing loss, they often think of an older person, but hearing loss can affect people of all ages. If left untreated, it can cause several surprising consequences, so it is important to get your hearing regularly tested.

1.      Cognitive Decline

Your brain is constantly picking up on sounds, even if you are not aware of them. Faint noises like air coming through a vent are filtered out by the brain. Similarly, the brain filters sound so that you can understand the difference between the siren of an ambulance passing by and the music playing on your radio. When you have hearing loss, the brain does not get the same quality of sound and struggles to pick up on sounds that are not there. This puts stress on the brain that can increase your risk of dementia later in life by at least 200%.

2.      Stomach Problems

Your body is an interconnected system and when your brain experiences stress, this emotional reaction can have a physical effect. Hearing loss can lead to an upset stomach, muscle tension, and anxiety which translates to diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps. If these problems persist, more serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can develop.

3.      Mental Health Problems

The difficulty of communicating with other people when you are hard of hearing can cause depression and stress. A study from 2014 found this correlation between loss of hearing and an increase in depression in adults under 70 years old. Other mental health conditions that can develop from years of untreated hearing loss are social withdrawal, irritability, anger, lack of focus, and a pessimistic attitude.

4.      Relationship Problems

A survey from 2007 found that 35% of people with hearing loss had trouble maintaining personal relationships. That’s because you  may feel you hearing-impaired partner isn’t listening to you, which is frustrating for both sides who may not recognize your hearing impairment yet.

Start Treatment Now

Hearing loss can be detrimental to your quality of life and has a significant impact on both your physical and emotional health. However, you can improve your hearing with the affordable H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program, offered by the expert team at the Hearing Doctors of New Jersey.

Get a Fresh Start

If you’re looking to improve your hearing and get a fresh start in your life, contact the Hearing Doctors of New Jersey to schedule a consultation today.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing aids, download our FREE Insider’s Guide on how to finally hear better.

Categories
Local Services

Hearing Services in Millburn, NJ

The experienced team at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey in the Livingston, New Jersey area offers a customized treatment plan to everyone that walks through our door. Whether you need an assessment, hearing aids, or a specific diagnosis, our staff can help you every step of the way. Let’s take a look at some of the many hearing services we offer.

Adult Hearing Assessments

An adult hearing assessment is a test that determines whether someone has a hearing impairment and if so, to what degree the impairment is. Since there are many different types of impairments and causes, an adult hearing assessment can help us figure out what the right care plan is for you.

During the hearing assessment, you will start by discussing your health with your audiology team. They will then examine your ears for any damage and then perform the actual hearing test.

Your Doctor of Audiology at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey will guide you through each step and assess your results. They will then explain the results to you so you can better understand your treatment plan.

Hearing Aids

To say there are a wide variety of hearing aids would be an understatement. There are numerous brands and types. But at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we use the H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program to determine which hearing aid will benefit you the most.

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we offer a number of hearing aid types as well as a variety of manufacturers including:

  • Oticon
  • Starkey
  • Widex
  • Phonak
  • ReSound

Hearing Aid Repairs & Fittings

We also offer a variety of hearing aid repair options as well as fittings to ensure you get the most comfortable fit possible. Some of the hearing aid repair options include in-house repairs, manufacturer repairs, and at-home repairs.

For in-house repairs, our team at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey can address several issues and return your hearing aid to you so you can get back to your life.

For more substantial manufacturer repairs, we can walk you through the process of getting your hearing aid repaired by the manufacturer. Most repairs are covered by the warranty so you likely won’t have to pay. We will also discuss how you can go about your day without your hearing aid.

Central Auditory Processing Evaluation

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a hearing disorder where the ears and brain do not work together properly. This can make it difficult to concentrate, remember instructions, and identify what you’re hearing.

Because it’s similar to ADHD and ADD, it can be difficult to diagnose. That’s where central auditory processing evaluation comes in. We take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and addressing CAPD.

H.E.A.R Method Treatment Program

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we use the H.E.A.R Method Treatment Program to customize a treatment solution for you.

The treatment program consists of a system that targets hearing loss, tinnitus, and cognition. It ensures you have repairs for a lifetime, four years of supplies, and plenty of fittings and evaluations.

Our H.E.A.R Method Treatment Program was founded on four principles: Hearing goals, engagement, analytics, and real results.

About Millburn, NJ

Millburn, New Jersey is a suburban township in Essex County with a population of about 22,000. The township offers a variety of high-end shopping and restaurants as well as the Paper Mill Playhouse and the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary. It’s only a short drive from Livingston, NJ where Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is located.

Categories
Hearing Loss

3 Main Benefits of Custom Hearing Protection for Those in Trades

Did you know it may be easier to damage your hearing than you think? While a normal conversion occurs at around 60-70 dB, hearing loss can happen at just 85 dB! Taking this into account, power tools can actually reach up to 100dB or more, depending on the tool. This is loud enough to permanently damage your hearing, especially if you are around the sound on a regular basis. As you can see, it is quite easy to damage your hearing, especially if your job requires the use of loud tools. Because of this, it is vital that you use hearing protection while on the job. Read on to learn more about custom hearing protection and how it can benefit you.


They are Made to Fit and are More Effective

Custom-made ear protection is created to fit your ears perfectly. This means you won’t need to worry about them being too big or too small, or not providing the right protection for your ears. With custom ear protection, you get what you pay for, so even though they may cost more, they provide superior quality and are the most effective at preventing noise damage.


They are More Comfortable

Let’s face it, ear protection is not always comfortable. If you are not using the proper protection because it’s not comfortable, you need custom-made ear protection. Because it is made specifically for your ear, the fit and is going to be perfect!


They Can Be Technologically Advanced

Modern-day hearing protection is very high tech and comes with features like noise cancellation and ventilation so that you get a beautiful listening experience while still protecting your hearing. On the other hand, store-bought earplugs can simply dampen your overall hearing ability and make it difficult to hear the things you want while blocking out excessive noise. Opting for custom hearing protection is the superior choice.


They Are Customizable

Unlike store-bought earplugs, custom ear protection can be customized to your liking. For example, you can purchase custom ear protection in the style of your workplace or add unique designs that fit your needs. Being able to personalize your ear protection can give you more motivation to wear it.



Contact Us Today

For more information regarding custom hearing protection services, contact Hearing Doctors of New Jersey today. Using our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program, our doctors of audiology will determine the custom hearing protection that will best suit your needs and lifestyle.

Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is dedicated to protecting and preventing hearing loss. Recently, our team visited the Livingston Police Department and donated custom hearing protection to protect those who protect us.

Categories
Hearing Aids

Which Hearing Aid Style is Right For You?

When you are getting hearing aids for the first time, you may be surprised to learn that there are several styles available to choose from. Each style has its own pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your hearing needs, lifestyle, and more. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our audiologists can help you choose your best hearing aid option.

Understanding Types of Hearing Aids

There are several different types of hearing aids, which all contain a small computer chip with an amplifier which converts sounds to code, analyzes and adjusts the sounds according to settings based on your hearing needs, and delivers the converted sound to your ear through a receiver (speaker). Hearing aid styles configure these components in different ways and can range in size, shape, and visibility when worn.

Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) hearing aids are the smallest and most inconspicuous option. These hearing aids fit securely within the ear canal.

Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are another small option which fit within the ear canal while still offering control through an external switch.

In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aids have custom-molded components that rest in the ear canal. They are a good option if you are concerned with hearing aids interfering with your eyewear.

In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids have full-shell pieces which sit just outside the ear canal. They are easily adjustable and offer excellent battery life.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aids are small, lightweight, and comfortable. This style allows for more advanced technology like the ability to pair to Bluetooth devices.  Another feature is that they come with a rechargeable battery for ease of use.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids house most of the technology in a piece behind the ear. This style, because of it’s size, offers more power and is a great option if you have a severe hearing loss.

How Do I Choose the Right Hearing Aid Style?

Choosing the right hearing aid style is dependent on your unique hearing needs, your lifestyle, and the style that best fits you. Each style has its own pluses and minuses. For example, if you wear glasses, you may be better suited to IIC, CIC, ITE, or ITC hearing aids, which do not fit along the back of your ear and will not compete with your glasses. Similarly, if you are very active or frequently spend time outdoors may be better suited to lower profile hearing aids. If you have a more severe hearing loss, you may require a larger style of hearing aid, such as a BTE device that provides more power. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our Doctors of Audiology will evaluate your hearing and recommend the styles that will best meet your needs.

The H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program

Our doctors of audiology use our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program to thoroughly assess your hearing health. This is the first step in fitting you with the best hearing aid option. The H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program:

  1. Creates a treatment plan based on your shared hearing goals
  2. Engages with you and your family to collect better insights into your hearing needs
  3. Analyzes your hearing issues and understand measurable results
  4. Generates real, measurable results tailored to your needs

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about your hearing aid options, schedule an appointment at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey by calling (973) 577-4100 or contacting us online.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing aids, download our FREE Insider’s Guide on how to finally hear better.

Categories
Local Services

Hearing Services in West Caldwell, NJ

Hearing Doctors of New Jersey provides comprehensive ear health and hearing treatments in West Caldwell and surrounding areas of New Jersey. Our Doctors of Audiology have extensive training and skills that are relied upon for some of the best hearing services in West Caldwell. We are dedicated to our patients and invite you to learn more about our hearing services.

Adult Hearing Tests in West Caldwell

An adult hearing assessment can be performed to check for hearing loss and the degree of hearing impairment. There are many different types and causes of hearing loss, so it is important to have an expert Doctor of Audiology perform these tests. Our Doctors of Audiology use the H.E.A.R. Method for comprehensive care, taking all factors into consideration to determine what may be causing hearing loss and how it can be treated in your individual treatment plan. Hearing assessments measure the ability to hear and how the ear reacts to different pressures, but we will also look for obstructions or damage to the ear.

Hearing Aids in West Caldwell

Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sound to restore hearing in people with hearing loss. By restoring a better ability to hear, people also improve their overall quality of life because they have a better ability to engage in conversation and communicate with others. We offer a variety of technologically advanced hearing aids in a variety of styles and functions. At your hearing assessment, we can discuss all your options in greater detail to determine the best one for your lifestyle and comfort level.

We offer products from the following manufacturers:

  • Oticon
  • Starkey
  • Widex
  • Phonak
  • ReSound

Hearing Aid Repairs in West Caldwell

Hearing aids come in a variety of styles: behind-the-ear, receiver-in-canal, in-the-canal, in-the-ear, and more! A hearing aid fitting in West Caldwell, NJ, will ensure that your hearing aids fit comfortably to function most effectively. Along with these varying styles, hearing aids also come with advanced technology like Bluetooth connectivity, noise-canceling technology, automatic adjustment, artificial intelligence, and rechargeable batteries. Like an electronic device, hearing aids can be damaged. We also offer quick hearing aid repairs at our office.

Central Auditory Processing Evaluation in West Caldwell

A central auditory processing evaluation can help adults or children with hearing loss. Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) causes distorted hearing that may be interpreted as your child not paying attention or having a learning disorder. This is because symptoms of CAPD include difficulty following multi-task directions, difficulty understanding abstract information, and having a poor memory. We offer hearing evaluations and a variety of treatment options for children with CAPD.

H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program

The H.E.A.R. Method is our comprehensive approach to hearing healthcare in West Caldwell, NJ. Our Doctors of Audiology recognize hearing loss as a progressive disorder that will continue to worsen without effective treatment. These worsening symptoms have an impact on physical, social, mental, and cognitive health. The H.E.A.R. Method focuses on four factors: hearing goals, engagement with patients, analytics for measurable results, and real results. Your ear health and overall well-being are important to our team.

Schedule a Hearing Test

Start hearing better by scheduling a hearing test for children or yourself in West Caldwell. We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have and can help you develop an individualized, comprehensive treatment plan.

About West Caldwell, NJ

West Caldwell is located about 16 miles west of Manhattan, NY, and 6 miles northwest of Newark, NJ, in the West Essex area. West Caldwell was originally incorporated as a borough in 1904 before becoming a township in 1981. The town is named after Presbyterian minister James Caldwell. Along the borders of West Caldwell are large swamplands known as the Hatfield Swamp and many smaller parks and nature reserves.

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HDNJ News

How a Medical Advocate Can Help: My Interview with Dr. Laura Abrams

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we know your hearing health and overall well-being are connected. Recently, I met with Dr. Laura Abrams, the founder of Seneca Medical Advocacy (SMA), and wanted to share with you what I learned. Dr. Laura Abrams is a board-certified internist who will help you or a loved one navigate complex medical situations to get the best care and treatment possible. Here’s what to know about SMA and how they can help you or a loved one struggling with a complicated diagnosis.

What is Seneca Medical Advocacy (SMA)?

Whether you or a loved one need short-term assistance with a confusing diagnosis or treatment path or desire longer-term support during a chronic illness, SMA can provide the guidance you and your family require to maneuver through the medical system. In short, SMA partners with you to:

  • Evaluate your medical history in the case of an unclear diagnosis
  • Research treatment options 
  • Help you make informed decisions about care
  • Find the best medical specialists
  • Facilitate communication between medical providers

SMA can help provide understanding, education, and advice about the overwhelming process of treating your life-altering medical diagnosis. In addition, SMA can investigate best practices and the latest medical research to help guide your medical journey.

Why would I need SMA’s expertise?

Do you have symptoms and testing hasn’t yet revealed a diagnosis?

SMA approaches each person in a holistic way, looking at the whole picture rather than an isolated symptom. By taking a thorough history and reviewing the latest medical research, they can determine what might be causing your symptoms and which testing modalities or specialists might be beneficial in finding the underlying cause.

Have you received conflicting opinions about treatment of your medical condition?

SMA will research the various treatment options and help you make an informed decision based on your needs and goals for care.

Do you see a lot of doctors and feel like they aren’t all on the same page about your care?

If there are many healthcare professionals involved in your care and coordination is needed, SMA will discuss your case with your providers – including your wishes regarding workup or treatment and the next steps in care, foster communication among your providers, and help bridge any gaps in care. 

How can Seneca Medical Advocacy help?

Maneuvering through the healthcare system can be frustrating during times when you’re relatively healthy. When you’re sick, however, you may feel vulnerable and the idea of navigating the medical world seems overwhelming. Dr. Abrams and the team at SMA understand that these challenging periods are when it’s most critical to have a dedicated medical professional who has the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly answer questions, and provide guidance about the best course of action to take regarding your care. They can help you navigate the complexities of the medical system to get you the care, treatment, and results you need. 

Learn More

Whether you or a loved one need short-term assistance with a confusing diagnosis or treatment path, or desire longer-term support during a chronic illness, Seneca Medical Advocacy can provide the guidance you and your family require to maneuver through the medical system. They’re based in the New Jersey & New York Metro area and can also provide services remotely throughout the US. Want to learn more about how SMA can help you? Dr. Laura Abrams is offering a 30-minute complimentary phone consultation to help you take control of your health. For more detailed information, you can contact SMA at (973) 309-3995 or info@senecamedicaladvocacy.com. For more information, you can also visit their website.