In a method for fabricating a hearing aid device, a patient visits an
audiologist at a dispenser location, and is examined to determine
electronic settings for a hearing aid to correct the patient's hearing
impairment. At the same visit, an ear mold of the patient is obtained,
which is scanned to produce a three-dimensional data set, from which a
prototype is produced from the hearing aid data set, that does not
contain any electronic components, and the prototype is test fitted with
the patient. By interaction between the patient and the audiologist, the
prototype is modified as needed. When the prototype is acknowledged by
the patient as being a comfortable fit, the three-dimensional data that
were used to create the acceptable prototype are electronically
transmitted to a fabrication site, at which the hearing device is
manufactured therefrom. The hearing device is then sent to a location at
which it is available to the patient.