Modern hearing aids can be adjusted remotely over a video call — no need to come into the office. For minor programming changes, troubleshooting, or fine-tuning during the adjustment period, remote support saves a trip and is often available within a day or two of the request. Here’s how it works, when it’s the right choice, and what we still need to do in person.
How Remote Programming Works
Most current-generation hearing aids from Phonak, Oticon, and ReSound include built-in remote programming capabilities. The setup is straightforward:
- You install the manufacturer’s smartphone app. We help you do this at your initial fitting.
- The app pairs your hearing aids to our office. One-time setup that takes about 5 minutes.
- When you need an adjustment, you request a remote session. We schedule it within 1–2 business days.
- At the scheduled time, you sit in a quiet room and open the app. Dr. Rossetti connects via video and talks you through what you’re experiencing.
- She makes programming changes in real time. You hear the changes immediately and give feedback. Iterate until it’s right.
- Save and end the session. The new programming stays on your hearing aids.
What Remote Programming Is Great For
- Fine-tuning during the first 4–6 weeks of adjustment. Small changes happen often during this period; remote sessions save a lot of driving.
- Volume or treble/bass adjustments. If sound feels too sharp or too bassy in certain situations, we can rebalance remotely.
- Adding or removing programs. If you want a dedicated “restaurant” program or a “TV” program, we can add it without you coming in.
- Troubleshooting Bluetooth issues. Most can be diagnosed and resolved over a video call.
- Travel or seasonal patients. If you’re a snowbird or traveling, we can support you from your home base.
What Still Requires an In-Office Visit
- Initial fitting. The first fitting requires Real-Ear Measurement, which can’t be done remotely.
- Annual re-evaluations. Hearing changes over time; we need to re-test in our sound-treated booth.
- Physical hardware issues. Wax filter replacement, dome changes, hardware repairs all require an in-person visit (or a walk-in).
- Major programming changes after a hearing test shows shifts. When your audiogram changes meaningfully, we re-do the REM verification in person.
- New patient set-up. Establishing care, taking ear impressions for custom devices, etc.
Supported Devices
Remote programming is supported on most current-generation hearing aids from:
- Phonak — via the myPhonak app, on Audéo Lumity, Sphere, and earlier Marvel/Paradise platforms
- Oticon — via the Oticon ON or Oticon Companion apps, on Real, Intent, More, and earlier Opn platforms
- ReSound — via the ReSound Smart 3D or ReSound Smart 4 apps, on Nexia, OMNIA, and earlier ONE/Quattro platforms
Older devices (5+ years old) may not support remote programming. If you’re unsure, ask us — we can confirm during a quick visit or phone call.
How to Request a Remote Session
Existing patients with compatible devices can request a remote programming session by calling our office at (954) 999-5495 or sending a message through the manufacturer’s app (the request comes directly to us). We’ll schedule the session within 1–2 business days.