Unlocking the Full Potential of Hearing Aids: Why Real-Ear Measurements (REM) Matter

Precision Hearing
Jul 24
2 min read

For anyone living with hearing loss, hearing aids can be life-changing. But even the most advanced device is only as effective as its fit—and that’s where Real-Ear Measurement (REM) comes in. As audiologists, our goal is not just to help patients hear better, but to help them hear optimally. And REM is one of the most important tools we have to do just that.

Real Ear Measurement is the gold standard in hearing aid fitting. — *Real-Ear Measurement*

What Is Real-Ear Measurement (REM)?

REM involves placing a small microphone probe into the ear canal to measure the actual sound levels reaching the eardrum while the hearing aid is on. This helps ensure that the device is delivering the right amount of amplification across all frequencies, tailored to your specific hearing loss and ear anatomy.

Why REM Is Essential for Optimal Hearing Aid Fitting

Despite being considered a gold standard in hearing aid fitting, REM is still underutilised in clinical practice. According to a 2018 systematic review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Audiology (PMC6002586), REM has a direct and measurable impact on hearing aid outcomes:

Personalisation: Every ear is different. REM customises your fitting beyond manufacturer presets.
Accuracy: It verifies that the hearing aid matches clinical prescription targets (like NAL-NL2 or DSL).
Better Outcomes: Studies show that REM fittings lead to improved speech understanding, especially in noise.
Higher Satisfaction: Patients who receive REM-based fittings report greater comfort and fewer adjustments.

Without REM, You’re Fitting Based on Averages—Not Individuals

Many hearing aids today come with "first fit" algorithms preprogrammed by the manufacturer. While these can serve as a starting point, they are based on average ear acoustics and population-level data—not the individual wearer.

In other words, skipping REM is like tailoring a suit without taking measurements. It may fit okay, but it won’t be perfect—and for something as critical as hearing, perfection matters.

What This Means for Patients

If you wear hearing aids—or are considering them—ask your audiologist whether they use Real-Ear Measurement as part of their fitting process. Not all clinics do, but it can make a world of difference in the effectiveness and comfort of your device.

At Precision Hearing, REM is a standard part of every hearing aid fitting. We believe that every patient deserves a solution tailored to their unique hearing profile, ear anatomy, and listening needs.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond “Good Enough”

REM represents a shift from “good enough” hearing to truly optimised, personalised hearing care. It empowers audiologists to deliver the best possible outcomes for their patients—and ensures that every decibel of amplification is doing exactly what it should.

If you're curious about how REM can enhance your hearing aid experience, we’d be happy to walk you through it.

🔬 Reference:

Sanders, J., Stoody, T. M., Weber, J. R., & Mueller, H. G. (2018). A Systematic Review of the Effect of Real-Ear Measurements on Hearing Aid Outcomes. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 29(3), 219–233. View article