Do you suspect that you or someone close to you has a hearing impairment? What should you do? Who can you contact?
Read on for an overview of the different hearing professionals you can consult and the next steps you should take.
Audiologist — Hearing test specialist. Performs an audiogram and conducts a full hearing test.
ENT doctor — Specializes in the treatment of ear, nose and throat diseases.
Audioprosthetist (Hearing aid technician) — Selects, sells, fits and maintains hearing aids.
So, where to begin? Who to consult first?
To determine how severe your hearing loss is, you first need to see an audiologist, who will perform a test called an audiogram. Don’t rush to make an appointment with an ENT right away. The ENT can’t make a diagnosis without the test results. An audiogram will cost between $95 and $370 depending of the clinic. This amount can be declared as a medical expense on your tax return or may be covered by private health insurance.
In most cases, if your hearing loss is within the norm for your age, you will be referred directly to an audioprosthetist. If your hearing loss is outside the norm, the audiologist will start by referring you to an ENT, who might prescribe additional tests, treatment or surgery as needed. ENT services in Quebec are covered by the RAMQ.
If the ENT does not think your issue can be treated, you will be referred for hearing aids. A professional audioprosthetist will help select the right hearing aids, program them for your specific needs, and take care of any subsequent technical maintenance.
Modern hearing aids are almost invisible, and they’re easy to wear and use. Once patients have them, they only wish they’d gotten them sooner. Better hearing leads to better quality of life. You’ll once again be able to hear sounds you lost: the chirping of birds, the murmur of water, baby babble, music. Even more importantly, you’ll regain your ability to communicate with other people.
If you’re not sure you have hearing loss, you can take a free screening test at our clinic until December 30, 2030. If a hearing impairment is detected, all three of the above-mentioned professionals are there to help you.
Contact us today at Clinique Auditive and RVO Aide Auditive Côte St-Luc
5555, Westminster, Suite 317, Côte St-Luc H4W 2J2
To schedule an appointment, simply call (514) 639-1000.
[email protected]
Anna Vandalovski
Audioprosthetist
(Member of the l’Ordre des Audioprothésistes du Québec)
