Vanguard Prescription Hearing Aid Center
Vanguard Prescription Hearing Aid is proud to have provided affordable hearing for over a decade to thousands of Michiganders. Our hearing aids are high-quality, FDA-approved medical devices that are programmed to the highest standards and tested by our in-house team of audiologists and hearing professionals. From patient care to patient support, we’re passionate about helping people with hearing loss get affordable hearing aid solutions, and we’re dedicated to making your experience with us a good one.
01
Ray Mihtar H.I.S
Most people look for a career that interests them. Then there are those who are lucky enough to find a profession that calls to them. Although Harwon “Ray” Mihtar was a successful entrepreneur who owned several businesses, his life changed when he began working at Beltone in 2014 as a hearing instrument specialist (HIS),who evaluates whether people have any hearing loss, and if they do, then prescribes the best hearing aid for their condition. “I had a feeling that I would enjoy being an HIS because you get to help people.
His passion for helping people maintain their hearing health prompted Ray to open the Vanguard Hearing Center, with the mission to provide affordable high-quality, FDA-approved hearing aids—with emphasis on affordable.
“Before he died, my father suffered from hearing loss,
” Ray says.
“And even though we knew it, we didn’t treat it, and that’s a regret I’ve had to live with. But at the time it was considered an inevitable part of getting old. So an 83-year-old man with hearing loss was normal. But now I know it can be treated. That’s why I don’t let money be an issue.
” Ray’s mantra is that patients should have choice. So he offers a wide selection of prescription hearing aids, from high-end devices with all the bells and whistles to basic models. “I ask clients: Tell me what you can afford, and I’m going to do my best to help you.” According to government data, there are almost thirty million adults in the United States suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss, but only 14 percent of them use hearing aids, mostly because of cost. Ray Mihtar is also passionate about making hearing aids more accessible to the underserved minority communities he serves.
“Minority access to affordable hearing aids is essential,
” Ray stresses.
“And today there area lot of ways that we can help people to get hearing aids.” If his client simply can’t afford a hearing aid, Ray helps by connecting them with community organizations like Michigan Rehabilitation Services, that partners with Vanguard and other hearing health professionals to provide hearing aids to adults and children in need.
“We’re committed to making sure that we meet the price point of every patient.
” As he points out, proper hearing isn’t just a quality-of-life issue; it’s also important to our long-term health. For example, many people don’t realize there’s a correlation between hearing loss and future dementia. “Through our services we have an opportunity to educate people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s about the importance of hearing health.
” Ray says.
Running Vanguard Hearing Center and providing service for its ever-growing clientele doesn’t leave Ray a lot of leisure time. What down time he does get is spent enjoying family time with his wife and their three children, playing pool or bowling with friends, or cheering on Detroit’s Red Wings and Tigers. Despite the demands of his profession, Ray says the rewards of making a difference keep him energized. “My mission is to provide great patient care and have people make hearing tests a regular part of their wellness routine, just like going to the dentist regularly or having their eyesight checked every year—starting when they’re kids. I believe we can do that, which would be the most satisfying legacy of all.”
“It is the most rewarding and fulfilling work. You get to make a difference, and have a genuine impact on people’s quality of life—being able to clearly hear their favorite song, or the voice of their loved ones. It’s the most satisfying career you can imagine.”
02
Dr. Anita Altschul Au.D
Was born outside of Chicago and lived in the Indiana suburbs until the age of 12, when they moved to Asheville, North Carolina. Anita studied Psychology at the University of North Carolina Greensboro where they received their Bachelor of the Arts in 2012. A musician in their spare time, they decided to combine their love for helping others and appreciation for sound and thus chose to pursue Audiology. Anita received their Doctorate of Audiology from Louisiana State University- New Orleans in 2016. Anita completed their fellowship in Adrian, Michigan in 2015, and since then has been a Michigan resident.
Anita is passionate about educating people about hearing loss and rehabilitation, so that those with hearing loss can begin to reconnect with their world and loved ones. Anita currently lives in Detroit, MI and has been a resident since July 2017. In their spare time, Anita plays several instruments, tours with a band, and likes to spend time with their cat and dog. They also enjoy sewing, drawing, and most creative endeavors.
“Hearing is truly one of the main gateways our brain is able to perceive the world. It is important to keep our brains stimulated and active, and hearing is one of the easiest ways to facilitate this process. When others can’t hear it can be frustrating for both parties involved, but it is important to realize this frustration stems from others caring and wanting to connect with their loved ones.”
03
Jodi Meade
Patient Care Coordinator
Jodi Meade has been with Vanguard from the beginning. With over 20 years of experience in patient care, she had developed a heart for caring for people. Jodi is an integral part of managing both our clinical team and caring about our patients. Jodi is dedicated to protecting every patient’s safety and health in a clinical setting. Through interaction with the healthcare team, patients can depend on open communication about what matters most to their care. Jodi has 2 grown sons and enjoys music, and reading. Her spare time is spent working with a mission outreach that she founded. It was established to serve the needs of the underserved or in need of a helping hand.
“I really found a home at Vanguard Hearing because our mission is centered on dispensing the best Hearing aids in metro detroit patients and not just turning a profit.”
04
Mary C. Darnell
Office Manager
Mary C. Darnell is the dedicated Office Manager at Vanguard Hearing Aids in Garden City, Michigan. With a strong background in management and patient care, Mary has been an invaluable asset to the Vanguard team. She graduated from Central Michigan University, where she honed her skills in organization and leadership.
Growing up on a farm, Mary developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community and care, values she brings to her role every day. Her passion for helping others, especially senior citizens, is evident in her commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
Mary ensures that each patient at Vanguard Hearing Aids receives personalized attention and support, fostering a welcoming and compassionate environment.
Outside of her professional life, Mary enjoys a variety of hobbies that keep her connected to her roots and her interests. She is an avid gardener, finding joy in cultivating her plants and flowers. Knitting and reading historical novels are her favorite ways to unwind, offering her a perfect blend of creativity and relaxation. Additionally, Mary treasures spending time at her cottage up north, where she can relax and recharge in the beauty of nature.
Mary’s dedication to her work and her patients, combined with her rich personal life and hobbies, make her a well-rounded and cherished member of the Vanguard Hearing Aids team. Mary can be reached at 734-219-4327.
“Every day, I strive to blend compassion and expertise to ensure our patients feel truly cared for and supported. Helping others hear the world clearly is not just a job; it’s my passion.”
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