Bob Skoric
Bob Skoric has dedicated nearly 40 years to helping individuals reconnect with the world through sound. As an audioprosthologist and board-certified expert in hearing instrument sciences, his professional journey is marked by both competence and a personal passion for improving his patient's quality of life. For him, working in the hearing industry has never been a job—it has always been a mission. Today, he serves as the president and founder of Beltone-Skoric Hearing Aid Center, a network of 37 locations across northern Michigan. Despite the growth and success of his business, his core mission remains unchanged—helping people hear, feel, and engage fully in life once again.
From the Stage to the Clinic
Born in Eastern Europe, Bob now resides in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, his journey to becoming a leader in the hearing care field began in an entirely different industry: music. For over 30 years, he played Serbian folk and Balkan music alongside some of the most talented locally and abroad musicians. Music has always been integral to his life, starting at eight in his hometown of Donji Stepci. Following in the footsteps of his father and uncles, he initially learned to play the guitar, later discovering his true calling—the accordion—under the guidance of the renowned Novica Negovanovic. His dedication and skill in music earned him the prestigious title of "First Accordion of North America and Canada" in 1985.
When not working with hearing aid patients, Skoric enjoys spending time in his home studio, recording acoustic music that he believes “caresses the soul.” As a devoted husband and father, he strives to preserve his Serbian musical heritage and share his love of music with his family.
This musical background profoundly influenced Bob’s understanding of sound. He learned that sound is more than just a scientific concept; it is a profound and human experience. This realization eventually led him to transition into hearing care, where he could help people reconnect with the world of sound and music that had meant so much to him.
What Is an Audioprosthologist?
While the term "audioprosthologist" may be unfamiliar, the role is crucial. An audioprosthologist is a specialized professional who focuses on diagnosing and treating hearing impairments, particularly through hearing aids. Though not a doctor, an audioprosthologist possesses extensive training and expertise in assessing hearing problems, dispensing hearing aids, and fitting them to suit each patient's needs. Bob is board-certified in hearing instrument sciences and has dedicated himself to helping his patients navigate the often emotional journey of restoring their hearing.
Bob is an ACA (audioprosthologist certified in audioprosthology) and is nationally board-certified in hearing instrument sciences. He has also been an active member of the International Hearing Society and served as Vice President of the Michigan Alliance of Hearing Care Professionals for two years.
Changing Lives, One Patient at a Time
Throughout his career, Bob Skoric has helped more than 20,000 individuals improve their hearing and, by extension, their overall quality of life. According to Skoric, hearing loss is not just a difficulty in understanding speech; it can affect relationships, work performance, mental health, and personal safety. One of Bob's most significant challenges is that many people delay seeking help for their hearing loss. Some individuals deny the issue, while others do not fully realize how hearing loss impacts their daily lives despite the numerous health and safety risks.
This is why Bob is so dedicated to patient education. He goes beyond simply treating hearing loss—he educates his patients about the importance of addressing untreated hearing loss and the life-changing solutions available. Whether through one-on-one consultations or community outreach programs, his message is clear: better hearing is achievable, and everyone deserves to experience the benefits of restored hearing.
Hearing Aids: A Modern Solution to an Age-Old Problem
One of Bob’s primary missions is to normalize the use of hearing aids. For some, wearing a hearing aid still symbolizes aging or frailty. However, modern hearing aids are far from the outdated devices they may once have been. Today’s hearing aids are small, powerful devices with advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and automatic sound adjustments. Some are so tiny that they are nearly invisible.
Bob and his team work tirelessly to ensure every patient receives the most suitable hearing aid. From the initial hearing test to follow-up care, they provide ongoing support and adjustments, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention. For Skoric and his team, the work is not just about selling a product; it’s about restoring a person’s confidence and helping them reconnect with the world through sound.
Building a Trusted Network of Care
The growth of Bob’s business—from three Beltone clinics to 37 locations—did not happen overnight. This expansion results from years of hard work, trust, and a commitment to providing excellent patient care. Each clinic is built on a reputation of trust, supported by a well-trained, compassionate staff that prioritizes patients' needs. While he now oversees a more extensive network, he is still heavily involved in the daily operations of his clinics, ensuring that his values of honesty, compassion, and patient-first care are upheld in every aspect of the business.
Giving Back Through Education and Advocacy
Bob’s impact extends beyond his work in the clinics. He is also passionate about community education, regularly hosting and attending public discussions to raise awareness about hearing loss and its consequences. As a former Vice President of the Michigan Alliance of Hearing Care Professionals, he has shaped policies that support patients and practitioners in the hearing care field.
Where Passion Meets Purpose
Bob Skoric’s story is about far more than business success or professional recognition. It is about a sense of purpose. Whether it’s the melodies of Balkan music or the sound of a hearing aid fitting, his life has always been propelled by sound. Through his passion for hearing care, he has helped thousands regain their hearing and reconnect with the world around them.
Even with 37 successful clinics and a team that shares his vision, his mission is far from complete. He remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing hearing care, breaking down the stigma surrounding hearing aids, and ensuring that no one faces hearing loss alone. For Bob, the work continues, and every patient is reminded of why he started his journey in the first place.