TruHearing does not manufacture hearing aids itself, since it operates as a hearing benefit and discount program that connects members to devices built by major manufacturers, and it is now part of the WS Audiology family.
TruHearing works with health insurers, employers, and membership organizations to offer discounted hearing aids from brands like Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Starkey, Widex, and Oticon.
The company was originally acquired by Sivantos, which later became part of WS Audiology, and TruHearing today describes itself as part of that same corporate family.
This guide explains what TruHearing actually is, who owns it, and how it connects members with real hearing aid manufacturers.
For related manufacturer research, see our guides to who makes Phonak hearing aids and who makes Jabra hearing aids.
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What Exactly Is TruHearing?
TruHearing is a hearing benefit administrator, meaning it partners with health plans, employers, and membership groups to offer discounted access to hearing aids and hearing care.
The company was founded in Utah and built its business model around negotiating lower prices with manufacturers in exchange for higher purchase volume through its partner network.
TruHearing does not design or build its own hearing aid hardware, distinguishing it from true manufacturers like Phonak or Signia.
Who Owns TruHearing?
TruHearing states directly on its own site that it operates as part of the WS Audiology family, the same global manufacturer behind Signia, Widex, and Rexton.
The company earlier ownership history includes an acquisition by Sivantos, which later merged with Widex to form WS Audiology in 2019.
This ownership structure gives WS Audiology a benefit administration arm alongside its manufacturing and hear.com retail operations.
Which Manufacturers Does TruHearing Partner With?
TruHearing lists seven major hearing aid partners on its own site, including Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Starkey, Widex, and Oticon, alongside its own TruHearing branded devices.
This means TruHearing members are not limited to only WS Audiology products, despite the company parent ownership, since the program still includes competing manufacturers like Sonova and GN.
Offering multiple manufacturer brands helps TruHearing serve a wide range of member preferences and hearing loss needs.
How Does TruHearing Actually Work?
Members typically access TruHearing through their health insurance plan, employer benefits package, or a membership organization like an association program.
Once enrolled, members can choose from a menu of discounted hearing aids and schedule a fitting with a local TruHearing network provider.
The program often bundles the device price with a set number of followup visits and a standard warranty period.
Is TruHearing Really Good or Really Worth It?
TruHearing is generally well regarded as a way to access real name brand hearing aids at a lower cost than paying full retail price out of pocket.
Members benefit from working with a nationwide network of providers rather than being limited to a single manufacturer clinic.
As with any benefit program, specific savings and device options depend on the exact health plan or membership providing TruHearing access.
Checking whether your insurance or employer already includes TruHearing benefits is a smart first step before shopping for a hearing aid at full price.
Is TruHearing the Same as Buying Direct From a Manufacturer?
Buying through TruHearing is different from buying directly from a manufacturer clinic, since TruHearing acts as a middle layer negotiating group pricing on behalf of its members.
The actual hearing aids still come from the original manufacturer, complete with that manufacturer warranty and technology, just offered at a negotiated member price.
This structure is similar to how a vision or dental benefit program might negotiate pricing with providers without making its own glasses or dental equipment.
What Does the TruHearing Branded Product Line Include?
In addition to partner manufacturer brands, TruHearing also offers its own TruHearing named devices as part of its overall program lineup.
These TruHearing branded devices are built through manufacturing partnerships rather than an in house TruHearing factory, similar to how many benefit and private label programs operate across healthcare.
Members can typically compare the TruHearing branded option against name brand choices like Phonak or Oticon when selecting a device through the program.
Understanding this distinction helps members make an informed choice, since the TruHearing negotiated discount does not change the underlying manufacturer quality behind each device on the menu.
Reading the specific coverage details of your own plan remains the best way to know exactly which manufacturers and price points are available to you personally through TruHearing.
TruHearing also publishes independent hearing aid manufacturer profiles on its own site, describing each partner history and product philosophy for members researching their options.
This educational content helps members feel confident comparing brands like Phonak, Starkey, and Oticon before scheduling a fitting appointment with a local network provider.
Because TruHearing is now part of the larger WS Audiology corporate family, its long term direction will likely continue to reflect decisions made at that parent company level.
Reading those manufacturer profiles alongside your specific plan documents gives you a well rounded picture before your first fitting appointment.
A few minutes of preparation can lead to a smoother overall experience.
It is worth the small effort involved.
How Do You Access TruHearing Benefits?
Members usually access TruHearing through a benefit listed on their health insurance card or employee benefits portal.
Those without existing coverage can also contact TruHearing directly to check individual membership or program options.
Frequently Asked Questions About TruHearing Hearing Aids
Does TruHearing manufacture hearing aids?
No, TruHearing is a benefit and discount program, not a manufacturer, though it is now part of the WS Audiology corporate family.
Who owns TruHearing?
TruHearing describes itself as part of WS Audiology, the same parent company behind Signia, Widex, and Rexton hearing aids.
Can I get a Phonak or Oticon hearing aid through TruHearing?
Yes, TruHearing partners with multiple major manufacturers, including Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Starkey, Widex, and Oticon.
How do I know if I have TruHearing benefits?
Check your health insurance card or employee benefits portal, or contact TruHearing directly to confirm your eligibility and available discounts.
Sources: TruHearing official site, HearingTracker, and TripleTree acquisition summary.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.