[adisinom]

Self-programming is a viable option.

In the past HA companies had a problem: audiologists weren't technical and didn't know how to program the increasingly sophisticated hearing aids. So the fitting software (1) automatically produces a reasonable fit and (2) at least the ones I've used have a section that asks questions and makes adjustments based on the answers.

It's also worth noting that there isn't really a "correct prescription" but rather it's an art of arriving at settings based on the client's goals and feedback. The audiogram is a diagnostic tool but only a starting point for determining HA settings. From the HA dispenser's perspective, adjusting settings costs them time and therefore money after they've made the sale. From the client's perspective, you'd need to visit the audiologist for every adjustment. Self-programming avoids the problem.

The programming hardware, software, and used hearing aids are all available on ebay. The prices are such that your average HN reader wouldn't have to worry too much about replacement costs if a HA breaks or goes missing. And the flexibility is great too.

You may not need NOAH. For a Phonak hearing aid you only need the iCube II (programming device) and Phonak Target (programming software). The NOAH software is an optional place to store customer data which is useful in a clinic that sells hearing aids from different manufacturers.