What is an audiologist?

An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating hearing and balance disorders. At Big Sky Audiology, audiologists are doctoral-level professionals who perform evaluations and provide comprehensive care for your hearing needs. These experts can measure hearing loss, recommend appropriate treatment options, and fit hearing aids to ensure optimal performance.

What is a hearing instrument specialist?

A hearing instrument specialist is a licensed professional trained to assess and treat hearing loss. On a normal day, they will administer hearing tests and perform tasks related to hearing aid fittings, including programming devices and making ear molds.

Are audiologists covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover diagnostic evaluations at hearing clinics when ordered by a physician. While Big Sky Audiology services related to diagnostic testing are typically covered, hearing aid costs may vary by insurance provider. At Big Sky Audiology, we work with various insurance providers and can help verify your coverage for both evaluations and hearing aids. We're committed to helping you understand your benefits and finding solutions that align with your hearing needs and financial situation.

What is the difference between an audiologist and an ENT?

While both professionals work with ear-related conditions, they serve different roles in your hearing journey. Audiologists specialize exclusively in hearing and balance disorders. They perform evaluations, measure hearing loss, and fit hearing aids. At Big Sky Audiology, our audiologists focus on comprehensive hearing treatment and rehabilitation.

When should I see an audiologist?

You should consider visiting Big Sky Audiology if you experience difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments. Additionally, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the TV or radio volume higher than others prefer, experiencing ringing in your ears (tinnitus), or having balance issues are all important reasons to seek professional care. Early intervention is key to addressing your hearing needs and achieving your hearing goals. Our audiologists at Big Sky Audiology can perform evaluations to determine the best course of treatment.

What are the signs of hearing loss?

The signs of hearing loss often manifest in various ways throughout daily life. In social situations, you might find yourself withdrawing from conversations or avoiding social gatherings altogether due to difficulty following group discussions. Behavioral changes might include frequently saying "what?" or "huh?", reading lips or watching faces intently while others speak, and struggling to understand phone conversations.

How long do hearing aids last?

The average lifespan of a quality hearing aid is 4 to 5 years with proper care and maintenance. However, just as your hearing needs may change over time, hearing aid technology continues to advance. We regularly measure hearing loss to ensure your device continues meeting your hearing goals effectively. Many patients choose to upgrade their hearing aid sooner to take advantage of new features and improved sound processing capabilities. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your hearing aid can help extend its lifespan. At Big Sky Audiology, we provide comprehensive care instructions and regular check-ups to ensure your hearing aid continues performing optimally throughout its lifetime.

How do I know which hearing aids are right for me?

Choosing the right hearing aid depends on several factors, and making an informed decision requires understanding your unique hearing needs. During your consultation at Big Sky Audiology, our experts will discuss various hearing aid styles and features available. We'll consider factors such as your daily activities, work environment, and hearing aid comfort preferences. Modern hearing aid technology offers options from basic devices to advanced models with smartphone connectivity and rechargeable batteries. Our audiologists will help you compare hearing aid models and features, ensuring you make an informed decision that perfectly aligns with your needs.

Trusted Audiologist in Billings, MT | Big Sky Audiology

Mary Matelich

Excellent service from Brandy for my hearing test and assistance on the actual hearing aides themselves. Receptionists Paxton and Tina are always friendly and helpful!

Colleen Huff

The girl who tested my hearing was phenomenal. She was thorough and had a perfectionist attitude. I couldn't be happier to have someone like her.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience. Our team takes great pride in providing thorough, personalized care, and it's wonderful to know that her attention to detail and dedication made such an impression. We'll be sure to share your compliments with her. Thank you for trusting Big Sky Audiology with your hearing care—we look forward to seeing you again! 😊👂💙

Faye Bertino

Response from the owner:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Thank you for the awesome review, Faye! We are so happy you had a great experience—your support truly means so much to us! We look forward to seeing you again!

pamela walker

It was a great first visit, all staff was very nice and knowledgabal

Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review, Pamela! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We're so glad your first visit was a great experience. Our team takes pride in providing friendly, knowledgeable care, and we're happy to hear you felt welcomed and well cared for. We look forward to seeing you again.

ciderp5

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star rating! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your positive feedback.

Troy Kostelecky

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star rating, Troy! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your positive feedback. It was our pleasure to assist you, and we're grateful for your support of Big Sky Audiology!

jason davidson

Response from the owner:Thank you, Jason, for the 5-star rating! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate your support and are grateful you chose Big Sky Audiology! Our team is committed to providing the best possible care, and we're honored to be part of your healthcare journey.

jane bryan

Every one at big sky was amazing, and unbelievably helpful, especially when I realized I'd left set of hearing aids there. They really tried to contact me but driving through billings is confusing for me.
I want to thank them all for making me feel comfortable and they did a great job programming my hearing aids. I can now understand what people are saying. So thank you, great seeing and experiencing Big Sky audiology.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Jane, for your thoughtful review! We’re so happy to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team at Big Sky Audiology. We know navigating through Billings can be stressful, and we were glad we could help reconnect you with your hearing aids! 😊It means so much to hear that you felt comfortable and supported during your visit, and we’re thrilled that your hearing aids are helping you better understand conversations again. Thank you for trusting us with your hearing care — it was wonderful meeting you, and we look forward to seeing you again!

Joanna White

Response from the owner:Thank you for the ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Joanna! We truly appreciate your support and are so glad you had a great experience with us. We look forward to seeing you both again!

Bob

Awesome place to do business with. The staff there treats you like family!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Bob! We’re so glad you feel like part of the family — that’s exactly the experience we strive to create for everyone who walks through our doors. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you again at Big Sky Audiology! 😊

Dale Penney

Profesional, knowledegable, caring, and friendly. Provided money saving ideas concerning the warranty on my nearly three year old hearing aids. Very pleased with the appointment.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Dale! We’re so happy to hear you had such a positive experience with our team. Providing knowledgeable, caring service while helping our patients get the most value from their hearing healthcare is always our goal. We truly appreciate your trust in Big Sky Audiology and look forward to seeing you again!

Kathy Berscheid

Efficient and helpful staff, friendly to talk with on phone and seemed to know the customers walking in while waiting on my appt. Environment was comfortable and clean. Experience was very positive with my Audiologist shared with me.and I look forward to working with her so I can hear better. Excellent educational materials

Response from the owner:Thank you so much wonderful review, Kathy! We’re so happy to hear you had such a positive experience with our team. Providing a welcoming, comfortable environment and taking the time to educate and support our patients is very important to us. We’re excited to be part of your hearing journey and look forward to continuing to work with you so you can hear your very best! 😊

Marlys Elder

I have found everyone in that office to be very kind and willing to go the extra mile to see that my needs are met. I highly recommend them.

Response from the owner:Marlys, thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! We’re grateful to have such an amazing team that truly cares about going the extra mile for our patients. It means so much to hear that you felt supported and well cared for during your visits with us. We appreciate you being part of the Big Sky Audiology family! 😊

Peter Longo

Exceptional- As usual, I should have come in sooner.

Response from the owner:Thanks so much, Peter! 😊 We’re glad you made it in — even if it wasn’t quite soon enough 😉 Always a pleasure seeing you, and we appreciate the 5 stars!

Donna

We were able to make an appointment easily, the clinician was punctual and pleasant, as was the receptionist.
The facility was very nice.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your review! We’re so happy to hear that scheduling was easy and that you had a positive experience with both our clinician and receptionist. We take pride in providing friendly, punctual care in a welcoming environment, and we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with Big Sky Audiology! 😊

Mary Locke

Response from the owner:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thanks a bunch for the 5 stars! We’re thrilled you had a great experience—your support truly makes our day. We look forward to seeing you both again! 😄

Ossie Abrams

Excellent and professional! Highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Ossie, thank you so much! We enjoy serving you.

Hal Iverson

Always friendly, knowledgeable and remembered people. Very thorough.

Response from the owner:Hal, thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad you feel welcomed by our friendly and knowledgeable team. Providing thorough care and building lasting relationships with our patients means so much to us. We’re so glad you’re a part of our Big Sky Audiology family! 😊❤️

John

Great Team, nothing but good things to say about them!
Thanks
John
Military Veteran

Response from the owner:Thank you, John, for your kind words and for your service as a Military Veteran!!⭐ We’re so grateful for your support and are thrilled to hear you’ve had such a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback! We look forward to serving you! ❤️

Eugene Friedrich

Very professional and timely. Explained everything thoroughly and answered our questions.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review, Eugene! ⭐ We’re so glad you had a professional and timely experience with us. It’s important to our team that every question is answered thoroughly and that you feel informed every step of the way. We truly appreciate your support! 😊

David Olson

First time for an audiology test. Brandi was my audiologist. She was very experienced, extremely professional, and was very patient in listening to my questions and answering each one thoroughly and to my satisfaction. I highly recommend Big Sky Audiology for all your present or future hearing needs.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for choosing Big Sky Audiology for your first hearing test! We’re so glad you had a great experience and that your questions were thoroughly answered. We agree—our Hearing Instrument Specialist, Brandy, is experienced, professional, and patient, and we’re lucky to have her on our team! 😊

Margaret England

Response from the owner:Margaret, thank you for the 5 stars! We truly appreciate your support! We look forward to seeing you soon! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mike & Diana Foster

Great experience. I've had hearing loss and exams for many years. Learned more from this exam than any other. Quite a knowledgeable group. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Mike and Diana, for your kind words! We are happy that you learned more about your hearing loss! We look forward to seeing and helping you in the future!

Dylan schober

Had a great experience at big sky audiology, they have improved my quality of life a 100%

Response from the owner:Dylan, thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with us and that we’ve been able to improve your quality of life—that truly means everything to our team. Helping our patients hear better and live more fully is exactly why we do what we do. We appreciate you trusting Big Sky Audiology with your care! 😊 We look forward to serving you!

Brian McGovern

Fantastic people and service!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Brian, for the 5-star review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We’re so glad you had a great experience with our team. Providing fantastic service (with even better people 😊) is what we strive for every day. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you again!

TE Clark

The service is excellent, and very professional. Close attention is paid to detail, making the experience even more successful.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and 5-star review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We’re thrilled to hear that you found our service both professional and detail-oriented. Taking the time to ensure every aspect of your experience is successful is something we truly value. We appreciate your trust in us and look forward to continuing to care for your hearing needs!

Walton & Patricia Tate

The service at Big Sky Audiology is excellent. Dr Hayden treats me with a high level of expertise and respect. I highly recommend Bug Sky Audiology.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! We’re thrilled to hear you had an excellent experience. Dr. Hayden takes great pride in providing expert, respectful care, and we’re so glad that came through during your visit. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to care for your hearing needs! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Paige Hadden

My hearing aids were cleaned as the filter prevented them from working. They are working again and I was given a pamphlet on cochlear implants as I am interested in having that procedure done. Thank you for the info and the help with my hearing aids.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review, Paige! 😊 We’re glad we could get your hearing aids cleaned up and working properly again—it’s amazing what a fresh filter can do! We’re also happy to hear you found the information on cochlear implants helpful as you explore your options. If you have any questions along the way, we’re always here to help guide you. Thanks again for trusting us with your hearing care! 💙

Joan Gereghty

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review, Joan! ⭐️😊 We truly appreciate your support! It means a lot to our team, and we look forward to seeing you again! 💙

Dan Huffman

I'm always impressed with the quality of the service and the pleasant interactions with the staff at Big Sky Audiology. Tina did a great job of making sure my new hearing aids were adjusted properly and that the options were set up the way I wanted them.

Response from the owner:Dan, thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We’re thrilled to hear you continue to be impressed with both our service and team—those pleasant interactions mean everything to us! Tina will be so happy to know her adjustments and personalization made a difference with your new hearing aids. Thanks again for trusting Big Sky Audiology with your hearing care. We look forward to serving you!💙

Wes Sessions

Kelsi was thorough and detailed with my assessment, as well as being very personable in her approach. Was nice to have such a caring environment to have my hearing needs met. Thanks Big Sky Audiology.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that Dr. Prosser made your experience both thorough and enjoyable—she truly cares about making each patient feel comfortable and well-informed. Creating a warm, caring environment is very important to us, and we’re so glad that came through during your visit. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to care for your hearing needs!

Tim Grammens

Very professional and felt very comfortable during my evaluation. Dr. Prosser explained my test results to me and I was able to see the need for hearing aids. I would recommend this practice to anyone

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Tim! We’re so glad to hear you felt comfortable during your evaluation—that’s exactly the experience we strive to provide. Dr. Prosser takes great pride in making sure each patient fully understands their results and feels confident in their next steps. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to support you on your hearing journey!

Pat Bentz

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5 stars, Pat! We truly appreciate your support! We look forward to serving you! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bobby Werner

Very professional, yet friendly staff. Wait time was minimal. Testing and training on how to maintain my hearing aids was provided.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re glad you found our team both professional and friendly, and that your visit was efficient. It’s great to hear the testing and hearing aid care training were helpful—we want you to feel confident every step of the way. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience!

Jim Hanson

AWSOME PEOPLE WHO REALY CARE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR HEARING LOSE. BEING ABLE TO HEAR MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE. JACK ZIEGLER BOZEMAN MT.

Response from the owner:Jack, we couldn’t agree more—being able to hear well really does make a world of difference. We always love seeing you—you’re truly a favorite around here! It means a lot to us that you make the 2-hour drive to come see us, and we’re so glad it’s worth the trip for you. Thank you for your continued trust and support! ❤️

Cherryl Kramer

I just love coming to see Dr. Haden and her staff. There so friendly and helpful. Treat you more like family then a patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Cherryl! We truly love having you in the office and are so glad you feel like part of the family—that’s exactly the experience we strive to create. We appreciate your trust in Dr. Hayden and our team, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!

Steven Brown

Very professional nice people have recommended them several times over the years

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and continued support! We truly appreciate your recommendations over the years and are so glad you’ve had a positive experience with our team! We look forward to seeing you, Steve!

Rebecca Dewater

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate your support and are glad you had a positive experience.

Karen Hould

As always, everyone was so friendly. My hearing exam went so smoothly. The gal who did my exam was fun to visit with, and everything was explained so well.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your review, Karen! We’re glad your exam went smoothly and that you felt comfortable and well-informed throughout your visit. Our team truly enjoys getting to know our patients, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience—we look forward to seeing you!

Bill Dugan

Very competent, explained every test and results.

Response from the owner:Bill, thank you for your review! We’re so glad you felt well-informed and comfortable throughout your visit. Taking the time to explain each test and your results is very important to us, and we’re happy it made a difference in your experience. We truly appreciate your support!

Christopher Moriarty

I'm a VA patient that recently relocated to Wyoming. Dr. Hayden performed a thorough hearing exam with a focus on my tinnitus and masking for that. She also found that my current hearing aids could fit better, and ordered me a better set to help me with comfort and my tinnitus. I was thoroughly impressed with the care and time Dr. Hayden took with me. I'm looking forward to my next visit.
Highly recommend

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and for trusting us with your hearing care! We’re so glad Dr. Hayden was able to provide a thorough evaluation and help improve both your comfort and tinnitus management. Taking the time to truly listen and find the best solutions for each patient is something we care deeply about. We’re honored to be part of your care and look forward to seeing you at your next visit. Thank you for the recommendation! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Doris A Davenport

They have “bent over backwards “ to help in every way possible

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Doris! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Going above and beyond for our patients is always our goal! We’re grateful to have you as part of our Big Sky Audiology family!

Kathy Olson

Friendly, thorough, knowledgeable

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review, Kathy! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate your kind words. Providing friendly, thorough, and knowledgeable care is exactly what we strive for, and it means so much to hear that reflected in your experience. We look forward to seeing you again!

Sandy Olson

My experience here at Big Sky Audioligy is very positive! A great bunch of friendly, caring, dedicated gals and I am very grateful for them
and the way they treat you. I highly recommend them to anyone with hearing losses. Go see them, they will treat you with.compassion and a very caring way

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation, Sandy! We’re truly grateful you took the time to share your experience. Our team takes great pride in creating a friendly, compassionate, and caring environment, and it means the world to know you felt that during your visit. We’re honored to be part of your hearing journey and are always here for you and Jim! 💙

Bev Hadley

Kind & friendly staff who were very helpful.
Very informative & caring suggestions.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the wonderful 5-star review! We’re so glad you found our team kind, friendly, and helpful. Providing clear information and truly caring recommendations is very important to us, so your feedback means a lot. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and look forward to seeing you both again!

Phillip Vanmeter

Fantastic place! Excellent professional service!

Response from the owner:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thank you so much awesome review, Phillip! We’re so glad you had a fantastic experience and appreciated our professional service. Your kind words mean a lot to our team—we’re always here if you need anything!

Don Parks

Great personnel and excellent staff to work with!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review, Don! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate your kind words—our team works hard to provide a great experience, and it means a lot to hear that you enjoyed working with us. We’re always here if you need anything!

Dave Naylor

Dr. Hayden was extremely informative and professional. I was there to get a second opinion about my hearing needs and she was very understanding. I look forward to my appointment next week.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review, Dave! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We’re so glad you had a great experience with Dr. Hayden and that she was able to provide the information and understanding you were looking for. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment! 😊

Reb Ellings

Absolutely 💯 score for this business and all of the staff.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 💯 score! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We truly appreciate your kind words and are so glad you had a great experience with our team. It means a lot to all of us! 😊

Big Sky Audiology: Top-Rated Hearing Aid Clinic in Billings, MT

Most Trusted Audiology Clinic in Billings, MT

Award-Winning Audiology Clinic & Hearing Aid Clinic Located in the Heart of Billings

Award-Winning Audiology Clinic Located in the Heart of Billings

Helping Heroes Hear: Proudly Serving the Armed Forces and Veterans

Proudly Serving the Armed Forces and Veterans

Your Journey to Better Hearing Starts with our Expert Team and today’s most advanced hearing aids.

Hearing
Tests

Hearing
Aids

Hearing
Implants

Tinnitus
Management

Fall Risk
Prevention

Ear
Cleaning

Personalized Hearing Tests and Expert Evaluations

Tailored Hearing Assessments for Accurate Diagnosis

Advanced Hearing Aid Solutions

Customized Treatments for Optimal Hearing

Take control of your hearing health today

Balance & Vestibular Treatment

Regain balance and confidence

What Our Patients Are Saying

Looking for Audiology Services or New Hearing Aids in Billings, Montana?

What is an Audiologist?

What is a Hearing Instrument Specialist?

Are audiologists covered by insurance?

What is the difference between an audiologist and an ENT?

When should I see an audiologist?

What are the signs of hearing loss?

How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

How Do I Know Which Hearing Aid is Right for Me?

Audiology Services

Big Sky Audiology: Top-Rated Hearing Aid Clinic in Billings, MT

Most Trusted Audiology Clinic in Billings, MT

Your Journey to Better Hearing Starts with our Expert Team and today’s most advanced hearing aids.

HearingTests

HearingAids

HearingImplants

TinnitusManagement

Fall RiskPrevention

EarCleaning

Personalized Hearing Tests and Expert Evaluations

Tailored Hearing Assessments for Accurate Diagnosis

Advanced Hearing Aid Solutions

Customized Treatments for Optimal Hearing

Take control of your hearing health today

Balance & Vestibular Treatment

Regain balance and confidence

What Our Patients Are Saying

Looking for Audiology Services or New Hearing Aids in Billings, Montana?

What is an Audiologist?

What is a Hearing Instrument Specialist?

Are audiologists covered by insurance?

What is the difference between an audiologist and an ENT?

When should I see an audiologist?

What are the signs of hearing loss?

How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

How Do I Know Which Hearing Aid is Right for Me?

Audiology Services

Hearing
Tests

Hearing
Aids

Hearing
Implants

Tinnitus
Management

Fall Risk
Prevention

Ear
Cleaning