For a person with hearing loss, an amplified phone is most frequently requested. Some other types of equipment are also available for hearing loss. Along with the phone, you can also receive some kind of signaling device – a flashing light, a loud ringer, a vibrator, or some combination – to alert you to the ringing of the phone. A wide selection of telephones and signalers is available at the Goodrich Center for you to try out.

 

The amplified phones are not only louder, but also clearer for better speech comprehension. For those who still cannot understand speech well, even with a quality amplified telephone, the state offers a captioned telephone, which allows people to listen and read what the other person says.

 

Other hearing loss equipment choices include cell phone amplifiers, captioned telephones, two-way text pagers, and TTYs.

 

We have the state application forms at the Goodrich Center and can assist with your selection of equipment. Or you can download the form and instructions from a state website, http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/dhhsforms.shtml. 

 

Follow the instructions and fill out the first page and sign it. If you know you want some type of amplified telephone, you can check that item on page 2. Then near the bottom of page 3, check Ring Signaler. If you think you might need other accessories or a different type of device, please call for an appointment so we will be available to assist you.

 

The last page of the application form must be filled out by a professional to certify that you have a hearing loss (or other communication disability). On the form itself it shows what kind of professional is able to fill it out - audiologist, hearing aid dispenser, doctor, licensed social worker, teacher of deaf students, speech pathologist, DARS VR counselor, and others.

 

You will also need to send a copy of some kind of identification as proof of Texas residency to Austin with the application form when it is all filled out. You can use your driver's license or other ID listed at the top of page 2 of the application form.