FLEX:UPGRADE: Seamlessly Elevating Hearing Technology Without Replacing Devices

AudiologyOnline: Why should audiologists choose FLEX:UPGRADE?
 

Bill Christman: Let’s start by making sure everyone knows what we mean when we refer to FLEX:UPGRADE.  FLEX:UPGRADE is one of our Experience Tech Tools and refers to the capability of all Unitron hearing aids to be upgraded with the new features of a higher technology level without replacing the existing hardware.  Clinicians can use the Unitron TrueFit fitting software to temporarily upgrade a patient’s existing instruments to a higher technology level, so the patient can wear them in their real-world settings and experience the potential benefits. When the upgrade proves valuable, the clinician can make the upgrade permanent right in the fitting software. Because FLEX:UPGRADE is part of every Unitron device, it’s a ready-to-use capability rather than something patients must opt into at the time of original purchase.

Why this matters for hearing care professionals:

• Every clinician can think of a past scenario where they have recommended higher level technology based on the patient’s self-described listening needs, but the patient was unwilling or unable to move forward with your initial recommendation. In this scenario, choosing Unitron hearing aids helps you meet patients where they are, offering an affordable starting point with the option to unlock more performance later as their budget allows. 

• I’m sure you can also think of a patient that you fit with lower-level technology and although they were initially successful and satisfied, when they return for a follow up visit something has changed.  Maybe a new job, a change in living situation, etc., and now they are struggling in more challenging listening situations.   In this scenario, being able to leverage FLEX:UPGRADE to allows the patient’s hearing aids to grow with them to better meet their evolving, more demanding communication needs.

• Leveraging FLEX:UPGRADE as an engagement tool for your practice – whether through upgrade services or targeted events where patients can test-drive higher-level technology – can create an additional stream of revenue as well as a unique differentiator for your practice.