국내 보청기 센터와 시장의 현황 연구

A Current Status of Centers and Market for Hearing Aids in Korea

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the current statuses of hearing aid centers and markets in Korea through surveys and to provide the element understanding about the basic structure of the hearing aid distribution. Methods: A survey was conducted with a questionnaire developed. A total of 30 items in six categories, basic situations of hearing aid center including scale and circumstances, opening motivation and handling brands, sales status, marketing promotion and opinions of the current hearing aid market. 114 responses were acquired and analyzed. Results: Any certificates for evaluation and rehabilitation of hearing aids were held by 74.6% of all participants. Among them, 67.5% have the audiological certificate presented by Audiological Testing Service, which is the main facility of the Korean audiologists who were educated properly. The average selling price of hearing aids was found to be around 1.5 million won. 34.2% of centers sold less than 10 units, while 21.1% sold more than 25 units monthly. 71.7% of the respondents answered that it is necessary to have an officially approved license for hearing aid sales. Also, it was pointed out that overheated price competition among centers was problem. Conclusion: This study broadened the understanding of Korean hearing aid centers and markets and provided the index for developing the hearing aid market-related policies. This kind of research should be carried out continuously to systematize the hearing aid market and resolve the emerging social problems of the people who use hearing aids such as the aged population.