We provide a full range of hearing tests, diagnostic and rehabilitative services, including prescribing and selling hearing aids.
We are the regional diagnostic centre for the Infant Hearing Program for Hamilton, Brantford, Niagara, Haldimand and Norfolk.
Care We Provide
The HHS Audiology Clinic is a full service clinic that provides testing and dispensing, for people of all ages. We offer:
- hearing tests
- hearing aid sales
- repairs and services
- other hearing related products
What to Expect
Step One: Hearing Test
The hearing test will provide the audiologist with information about how your ears are working. This test will help the audiologist decide if you need a hearing aid, a listening tool or some other communication method. The hearing test involves listening to soft sounds and does not cause you any pain. You will receive the results for your hearing test at the end of the appointment. You do not have to pay for the hearing test. It is paid for by OHIP.
Step Two: Hearing Aid Evaluation
If you have a hearing loss that can be helped by the use of hearing aids, you can arrange for a hearing aid evaluation. The audiologist will meet with you to discuss your personal needs and goals and make suggestions about ways to improve your hearing ability in different settings. This may include:
- information about hearing aids, types of technology, styles, and other options
- information about assistive listening devices or tools (for televisions and/or telephones)
- the cost of the hearing aids including payment choices (including help from the government)
If you wish to purchase your hearing aids through our dispensary, we can order your hearing aids for you. At the time of ordering we will need a non-refundable deposit for the hearing aids. They will be ready for pick up in 7-10 days.
Step Three: Hearing Aid Fitting
The hearing aid fitting includes two parts:
- testing of your new hearing aids to make sure they fit well and are providing the right sound quality
- an introduction to the care and use of the hearing aids
The balance of the hearing aid cost is due at this time and any necessary paperwork will be signed. You will be provided with the paperwork that can be submitted to your insurance company or for your income taxes, as hearing aids may be claimed as a medical device.
Step Four: Hearing Aid Check/Follow-up
After your fitting, you will be able to try the hearing aids for 40 days. After you have worn the hearing aids for about 3-4 weeks, you will see your audiologist. They will review the fit, comfort and sound quality of the hearing aids. They can answer any questions about the hearing aids and can provide you with advise and ways on how to best use your hearing aids.
*During the 40 day trial period, you may return the hearing aids for exchange or credit if the hearing aids do not seem to be helping your hearing. There is no cost to exchange the hearing aids, but if you return them, the hearing aid deposit is non-refundable.
Audiology Team
The HHS Audiology Clinic team is made up of:
- Registered Audiologists who are members of the College of Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO)
- Communicative Disorders Assistants (CDAs)
- Administrative Support Staff
Our audiologists are qualified to serve clients of all ages, including those with physical, developmental and emotional issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to test your hearing?
Hearing is an important part of life at any age.
For children:
- Normal hearing is important for developing speech and language.
- Hearing loss that is not treated may create problems with listening, learning, behaviour and social skills.
For adults:
- Hearing loss that is not treated may cause feelings of frustration, confusion and of being alone.
The audiologist will discuss your hearing test results with you and suggest aids or equipment that may be needed to improve your hearing.
Is the cost of a hearing test covered by OHIP?
Yes, the cost of a hearing test is covered by OHIP.
Is the cost of a hearing aid covered by OHIP?
The cost of a hearing aid is not covered by OHIP. Most people will receive funding through the Assistive Devices Program, a government program, which will pay $500 towards the cost of one hearing aid and $1000 for the cost of two hearing aids.
Other funding may be available through Social Services, Veteran’s Affairs Canada or Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
Our audiologists will help you understand the differences between the hearing aid technologies and the costs involved. You will not feel pressured to buy. Our certified audiologists do not receive any money from hearing aid sales.
Is there a trial period for hearing aids?
After your hearing aid fitting, you will be able to try the hearing aids for 40 days before deciding if you want to keep them. Your audiologist will review the fit, comfort, and sound quality of the hearing aids.
What products are available to purchase?
- hearing aids and accessories
- assistive listening device
- batteries
- hearing protection
- swim plugs
Referral Process
We serve anyone in Ontario. It is easy to arrange a referral and an appointment in audiology. Please ask your family doctor to call our department or fax in a referral.
Download a copy of our referral form.
If you need to cancel an appointment, please call the office 24 hours before your appointment. This allows us to offer the available appointment time to another client on our wait list.
