I am a lifelong hearing aid wearer and an Assistive Device vendor, and I have shared office space with hearing aid dispensers. So my suggestions are based on experience and inside knowledge.
Hearing aids are expensive.
I can only think this happens because of the relationship between the buyer and seller. Hearing aids do work, provided they are properly fitted and the buyer has realistic expectations of them. So choose your dispenser wisely. ALL quality hearing aid manufacturers produce an aid that fits your loss. Most aids can be programmed using digital technology.