Real Ear Measurement (REM) is an objective hearing aid verification test that measures the sound pressure level in a patient’s ear canal while the hearing aid is worn. Real ear testing is used to assess hearing aid function in the ear canal and to check that amplification meets prescribed targets, so the hearing aid provides clear, comfortable sound.
Watch video about Real Ear Measurement in Measure.
Pair the Wireless REM Probe with Our Audiometer & Fitting Unit
Why Perform Real Ear Measurements for Hearing Aid Fittings?
The REM test increase customer satisfaction and clinic efficiency by taking the guesswork out of hearing aid fittings. Providing each individual client optimal gain and frequency response when programming new hearing aids ensures a more comfortable listening experience, improved speech quality, and overall intelligibility.
Reduce the number of return visits
By fitting the hearing aids properly, the first time, customers will need less fine-tuning down the road, which means fewer return visits, follow-up appointments, and troubleshooting. This boosts efficiency and improves bottom lines.
Increase customer satisfaction
Real ear testing delivers true customer satisfaction, which enhances a practice’s reputation while reducing the time and expenses associated with multiple return visits and returns. Increased customer satisfaction leads to patient loyalty and an increase in the number of referrals.
Reduce hearing aid return rate
All available evidence shows that customers are happier with their hearing aids – and their audiology providers – when they’re fitted using real ear testing. Satisfied customers mean fewer hearing aid returns, which translates to more profitable businesses.
Increase customer referrals
Happy and satisfied customers are more likely to recommend friends and family to a business. Leads from customer referrals are usually high quality and often have an increased purchase intent.
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Lifestyle, hearing loss severity, and ear anatomy all influence how a hearing aid should be fit. Because each ear is unique, small differences in canal shape affect acoustics—making real ear measurement critical for accurate hearing aid fittings.
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Hearing aids are programmed through software that amplifies sound in different ways depending on the audiogram. Once programmed, however, the fit or sound may still not be perfect. This is where a real ear measurement comes into play. Once the audiologist has REM data, they can then adjust the hearing aids to ensure that that individual is getting the correct amount of sound.
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Without a real ear measurement, fitting hearing aids properly can be a frustrating process of trial and error. An audiologist can adjust the fit to the hearing aid software’s recommendations, and the patient may still return several times for adjustments. By performing real ear measurements, you are reducing the likelihood of extensive follow-up visits, which take up precious clinic time.
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Everything You Need to Know About Real Ear Measurements
This guide will explain why REM is crucial in modern audiology and dispel the misconceptions that may cause hearing care professionals to avoid this test. We will also discuss the process for real ear measures, the benefits of this approach, and ideas to use REM in your hearing clinics to set your business apart.
Slide to take a sneak peek of the guide
Step 1
Prepare the Patient
- Perform an otoscopy to check for any contraindications like ear wax, perforated ear drum, or discharge. Place the patient in front of the REM speaker at a distance of 80 to 100 cm.
- Calibrate the REM probe tubes by holding the REM headset in front of the speaker and running the calibration in the Measure software. Anomalies in the probe tube frequency response may indicate a blocked or broken probe tube.
- Insert the probe tube into the ear canal of the patient. Typically, the insertion depth is between 28 and 30 mm. The Measure REM probe tube has an adjustable marker that helps you place the tube optimally.
