This is a follow-up to my April 23 "Consumers have the right to return hearing aids" letter. I'm a licensed audiologist and hearing aid dispenser. I don't presently sell hearing aids.

When purchasing hearing aids, you're making an investment to improve your quality of life. You'll be working with the dispenser for followup. I recommend interviewing at least two dispensers before paying your money and putting trust into a hearing healthcare provider.

Consumers go to three or four different businesses to buy a car or refrigerator. Hearing is more important. You have 30 days to try hearing aids, and by law you can return them and get 100 percent of your money back.

Know your rights. Have your hearing evaluated by a licensed audiologist and examined by an otologist to rule out any possibility of hearing loss that requires medical intervention.

I originally wrote my letter because of a particular dispenser in this community.

It breaks my heart knowing that hearing-impaired consumers were taken advantage of. Since my letter, this particular dispenser has sold to another party. He left a wake of people who were entitled to refunds.

There's a new owner now, and I want to thank and commend him for doing what he can to make things right. Unfortunately, when someone leaves town with other people's money, there's only so much that can be recouped.

If you purchased hearing aids and weren't able to return them, please give the information to Assemblymember Audra Strickland's office at (805) 230-9167.

Hopefully, restitution will be made.

Hearing-impaired consumers should know that most dispensers and audiologists around here care a great deal about them. Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley have great dispensers, but you need to interview them.

If you have hearing loss that can't be treated medically, don't deny it- - your hearing most likely won't get better. Hearing aids may keep that auditory pathway stimulated.

My advice to family, friends and patients is just try the hearing aid(s) for 30 days; you might just be pleasantly surprised. If you're not, return it for a 100 percent refund within 30 days. Sandee Saurman Thousand Oaks