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

Julie Ann

Everyone at Big Sky Audiology were so friendly and helpful. I am so pleased with how they explained the hearing loss I had and helped get the right hearing aids that would improve my hearing. Thanks especially to Tina for making my first visit to a hearing specialist such a pleasant one. Julie

Response from the owner:Thank you, Julie, for your kind words! We are thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience at Big Sky Audiology. Our team takes pride in providing friendly and helpful service to all our patients. We are glad that we were able to explain your hearing loss and find the right hearing aids to improve your hearing. We will make sure to pass on your appreciation to Tina for making your first visit a pleasant one. If you have any further questions or need assistance in the future, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Rox Hicks

Response from the owner:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you so much for your 5-star review, Rox! We truly appreciate your support and are so glad you had a great experience with us. It means a lot that you took the time to share your feedback!

Shelley Lappin

Greeted as soon as I was through the door by Tina and Katrina. High five for paying attention to me. I was checked in quickly and then Dr. Hayden gave me a thorough checkup. My hearing aids were cleaned and filters replaced. Dr. Hayden paid close attention to my hearing so necessary changes could be done. Dr. Hayden and her staff all deserve five stars. Caring, friendly and helpful. I couldn’t have asked for a better appointment.

Response from the owner:Hi Shelley, thank you so much for your wonderful review! 😊 We truly appreciate your kind words. We're so glad Tina, Katrina, and Dr. Hayden made you feel welcome from the moment you walked through our doors. It's great to hear your hearing aids were cleaned, adjusted, and that you felt listened to throughout your appointment. Providing caring, friendly, and personalized care is what we strive for every day. Thank you for trusting Big Sky Audiology—we look forward to seeing you again!

Jeremy Page

The entire team is kind, caring, compassionate, thorough, efficient, and professional! I would highly recommend Big Sky Audiology!

Response from the owner:Hi Jeremy, thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! 😊 We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Providing compassionate, thorough, and professional care is what we strive for every day. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you again at Big Sky Audiology!

Sharlene Loendorf

Everyone is very helpful. They answer all your questions. Very friendly staff.
Thank you

Response from the owner:Hi Sharlene, thank you so much for your kind review! 😊 We're so glad to hear you found our team helpful, friendly, and able to answer all of your questions. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you again at Big Sky Audiology!

Michael Holland

Everyone there is so friendly and helpful! Dr. Hayden is wonderful and really cares about her patients. She takes time to explain everything to you in a way that you can understand. Great place!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Michael! 😊 We're thrilled to hear you had such a positive experience with our team. Dr. Hayden is passionate about helping patients understand their hearing health and providing personalized care every step of the way. We'll be sure to share your thoughtful feedback with her and the rest of our staff. Thank you for trusting Big Sky Audiology—we truly appreciate your recommendation! 💙

Bruce Dobie

Big Sky Audiology presents extraordinarily well, from the moment you walk in the place. There at the front desk are the always cheery and talkative ladies. In no time one is lead to the welcoming offices of top-dog and owner Tracy Hayden. I left feeling that Tracy's years of experience had me in good hands and and on the receiving end of wise counsel. Thanks Tracy and Big Sky Audiology!

Response from the owner:Bruce, thank you so much for your thoughtful and kind words! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Dr. Hayden and our entire team are dedicated to making every patient feel welcome, informed, and confident in their hearing healthcare. We're so glad you felt well cared for and that Dr. Hayden's experience and guidance made a positive impact. Thank you for trusting Big Sky Audiology—we look forward to seeing you again!

Scott Langman

No waiting for my appt! Had a hearing test which took very little time and was very professionally done. I have had great treatment at Big Sky Audiology. I highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Scott, thank you so much for your kind review! 😊 We're so glad to hear you had a prompt appointment and a professional experience with your hearing test. Providing quality care is important to us, and we're thrilled you've had such great treatment at Big Sky Audiology. Thank you for your recommendation—we truly appreciate your support! 💙

Linda Tuell

Answered all my questions. Patient and thoughtful

Response from the owner:Linda, thank you for your wonderful 5-star review! 😊 We're so glad we could answer all of your questions and provide a patient, thoughtful experience. We truly appreciate your kind words and thank you for choosing Big Sky Audiology! 💙We look forward to seeing you again.

Wanda McGregor

Friendly, helpful and professional. Excited to see how my new hearing aids work!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! ⭐😊 We're so glad you had a friendly, helpful, and professional experience with our team. We're excited for you to enjoy your new hearing aids and all the benefits they can bring. If you have any questions or need anything along the way, we're always here to help. Thank you for choosing Big Sky Audiology!

Van Pittack

Tina is great

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're so glad you had a great experience. Tina truly enjoys helping our patients, and we're thrilled to hear she made such a positive impression. We appreciate your kind words and your support of Big Sky Audiology. We look forward to seeing you again!

Marianne Wittenberg

I had a wonderful experience at Big Sky Audiology Clinic with Tina. I had purchased a ReSound hearing aid from another hearing aid clinic in town. My hearing aids were over $6000. Unfortunately, my experience with that hearing aid specialist left me frustrated and unable to hear. I purchased a sophisticated hearing aid so I could have the best quality hearing possible. After a year of trying to work with him, I was at my wits end.

Fortunately, I found Big Sky Audiology Clinic. Tina is outstanding. She went above and beyond for me as my representative to ReSound, the hearing aid manufacturer. She restored my faith in hearing aids. Her product knowledge and ability to fit my hearing aids to my ears and dial them in so that I could hear was incredible. It was the exact opposite of what I had experienced with the other clinic.

I would highly recommend Big Sky Audiology Clinic - Tina is a dedicated fantastic employee. Not being able to hear is very scary, my wife and I were beginning to think my hearing had dramatically decreased until we found Big Sky Audiology. Not only did Tina educate me on all the features and benefits of my hearing aid she continually checked in with me to make sure that my settings were correct for my hearing. We are very grateful to her for the excellent customer service I received.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and recommendation! We're so happy Tina was able to help you get the most out of your hearing aids and provide the care you deserved. Your kind words mean a great deal to our team, and we're grateful to be part of your hearing journey! We look forward to seeing you again!

Chris Evans

Response from the owner:Chris, thank you so much for your 5-star review! We truly appreciate your support and are grateful you chose Big Sky Audiology. It means a lot to our team, and we look forward to seeing you again! 😊

Shayla Hagen

My experience was great! The testing was all done with great care, and explained very well
I will definately recomend my Doctor to others , and already have!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! 😊 We're delighted to hear you had a great experience and that everything was explained clearly. Your recommendation means so much to us, and we truly appreciate you sharing your experience with others. We look forward to seeing you again!

Danelle Lessard

Tracy was absolutely so caring and professional. She helped so much. I would so recommend Big Sky Audiology.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear that Dr. Hayden made such a positive impact on your experience. We truly appreciate your recommendation and your kind words. Thank you for choosing Big Sky Audiology—we look forward to seeing you again!

Dorothy Swanson

The audiologist was very professional but treated me as if I were her best friend. It was kind of nice. I was clearly given my options, That was nice also. I recommend this place. It was worth the drive from Lewistown

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! We truly appreciate you making the drive from Lewistown to see us. We're delighted to hear that you felt both well cared for and comfortable during your visit. Building genuine relationships with our patients while providing clear, professional guidance is something we strive for every day. Thank you for your recommendation—it means a great deal to our entire team. We look forward to seeing you again whenever you need us!

Jody Thompson

A very kind, knowledgeable, and compassionate staff. They definitely are very good at what they do!!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Jody! We are honored by your feedback and are thrilled to hear that you found our team kind, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Providing exceptional care and helping our patients hear their best is what we're passionate about. We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to serving you again!

Kathryn Osborne

Had a great experience at Big Sky Audiology. The staff was professional and kind - and Dr. Prosser was outstanding! She thoroughly explained everything and listened to my concerns.

Response from the owner:Thank you, Kathryn, for your wonderful review! We're so glad you had a great experience at Big Sky Audiology. Providing professional, compassionate care is very important to our team, and we're delighted to hear that Dr. Prosser took the time to thoroughly explain everything and address your concerns. We truly appreciate your kind words, and we look forward to serving you again!

Colin Kerr-Carpenter

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐We truly appreciate your support and are grateful you chose Big Sky Audiology for your hearing healthcare needs. Thank you for trusting us with your hearing journey. We look forward to serving you again in the future!

Judy Fisher

Response from the owner:Thank you, Judy, for your 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We appreciate you taking the time to share your support! It was a pleasure helping you, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be part of your hearing healthcare journey. Thank you for choosing Big Sky Audiology. We look forward to seeing you again!

Debra Serrano

Response from the owner:Thank you for the ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Debra! We are so happy you had a great experience! We look forward to seeing your family again!

Joanne Handley

Warranty repair went good and the staff always treat me well...

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review! We're glad to hear your warranty repair went smoothly and that our team continues to provide you with great service. We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to helping you again whenever you need us!

Mike Baker

I love my new hearing aids! Significant improvement over previous ones. Thank you for helping me find the best technology for my needs and preferences.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review Mike! We're so happy to hear that your new hearing aids are making such a positive difference. We appreciate the trust you placed in us and look forward to supporting your hearing journey for years to come!

wendy beesley

Very friendly

Response from the owner:Wendy, thank you for the 5-star review! We’re glad you found our team friendly and welcoming. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you again at 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!

Response from the owner:Thank you, Mary, for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re so glad to hear that Brandy provided excellent care during your hearing test and helped you with your hearing aids. We also appreciate your kind words about Paxton and Tina—they work hard to make every visit a positive experience. Thank you for choosing Big Sky Audiology. We look forward to continuing to serve you!

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!

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