Hearing loss can affect communication, school performance, work life, and the quality of life for thousands of people. However, for many families, the high cost of hearing aids represents a difficult barrier to overcome.
With the goal of reducing this obstacle, the Sertoma Foundation for Speech and Hearing offers financial assistance that allows low-income individuals to access hearing screenings, specialized consultations, and hearing aids at significantly reduced prices.
During a community event in Sun City, the organization provided free hearing screenings and guidance to residents who needed to know the status of their hearing health or required hearing aids.
Naydelyn Ferro, manager of the Sertoma Foundation for Speech and Hearing clinic, explained that the institution receives ongoing requests for assistance and organizes its services according to the needs identified in different communities throughout Florida.
“We are here providing completely free hearing evaluations and follow-ups, and offering hearing aids at a significantly reduced price thanks to the financial assistance provided by the foundation,” she stated.
The organization does not limit its work to the city of Tampa. Through mobile clinics and a network of community partners, it brings its services to cities such as Sun City, Clearwater, Ruskin, and other communities across the state.
According to Ferro, the foundation works in conjunction with non-profit organizations and community centers that identify individuals with hearing problems and limited financial resources. One of these partnerships is with the Mary Petro Foundation for Pharmacy and Medicine, whose patients receive specialized care on a regular basis.
“Every three months we visit Sun City Center, and every two months we hold a free clinic in Clearwater, depending on the referrals we receive from our partners,” she explained.
Hearing aids at a fraction of the cost
One of the program’s greatest benefits is the reduced price of hearing aids.
While these devices can cost between $1,300 and $5,000 per unit on the market, financial assistance from the Sertoma Foundation allows many beneficiaries to acquire them for approximately $228 each, including evaluation, diagnosis, consultations, and professional follow-up.
“Many people have been looking for a solution for years and are surprised to learn about the savings they can achieve,” said Ferro.
The organization uses a tiered pricing system based on each applicant’s income, which expands access to those who need it most.
Care for children and adults
The foundation’s services are not limited to senior citizens. Shannon Kriss, a collaborator with the organization, explained that the institution also develops early detection programs for children from birth to 18 years of age.
“We visit preschools and daycare centers in all 67 counties of Florida to conduct hearing tests and detect potential problems from an early age,” she noted.
When an evaluation indicates that a patient needs specialized care, the consultation with an audiologist can also be done free of charge.
“If we find any concerns during the test, we make time in our schedule and help the patient in any way we can. Our goal is that the cost of hearing aids should not be a barrier to receiving treatment,” Kriss added.
Special program for children
The Sertoma Foundation also administers the Children’s Hearing Aid Program (CHAP), a program for children under 18 that covers evaluations, ear molds, specialized services, and hearing aids through financial assistance.
Ferro explained that families do not need to travel to the organization’s main office to receive care.
“If a family lives in Miami, Broward, or any other city in Florida, we coordinate care with a nearby specialist so they can receive service in their own community,” she stated.
Currently, the foundation works with more than 117 partner organizations throughout the state, allowing it to expand the reach of its programs and connect with communities in greater need.
How to apply for assistance
Interested individuals can apply directly to the Sertoma Foundation for Speech and Hearing or be referred by one of the community organizations with which the foundation partners.
Once the application is received, the team evaluates the applicant’s financial situation and medical need to determine the type of financial assistance available.
Through its mobile clinics, children’s programs, and community outreach events, the Sertoma Foundation continues to bring specialized hearing health services to those who would otherwise struggle to access them due to financial constraints, helping to improve communication and the quality of life for hundreds of families in Florida.