Does OHIP Cover Hearing Tests?
If you’re looking for a hearing test centre in Ontario, it’s important to understand what services are covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) and what additional funding options may be available. Whether you’re experiencing hearing changes or simply staying proactive about your hearing health, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hearing tests, coverage, and how to book an appointment with Bravo Hearing Centre.
What Types of Hearing Tests Are Covered by OHIP?
In Ontario, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers diagnostic hearing assessments when performed by a physician, such as an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, or in a hospital setting. These assessments are typically initiated through a referral from your family doctor. However, hearing tests conducted at private hearing test centres or audiology clinics are generally not covered by OHIP.
Are Hearing Tests Free in Ontario?
While OHIP does not cover hearing tests at private clinics, some hearing test centres may offer complimentary hearing screenings. It’s important to note that these screenings are not comprehensive diagnostic assessments. Comprehensive hearing evaluations at private clinics may incur fees, which can vary depending on the services provided.
Are Children’s Hearing Tests Covered by OHIP?
Yes, OHIP covers hearing assessments for children when conducted by a physician or in a hospital setting. These assessments are often initiated through referrals from family doctors or pediatricians. However, hearing tests performed at private audiology clinics may not be covered by OHIP, and fees may apply.
Does OHIP Cover Hearing Tests for Seniors?
OHIP provides coverage for hearing assessments for seniors when performed by a physician or in a hospital setting. As with other age groups, assessments conducted at private hearing test centres are generally not covered by OHIP. Seniors may also explore additional funding options for hearing aids and related services through programs like the Assistive Devices Program (ADP).
Where to Book an Assessment in Ontario
To access an OHIP-covered hearing assessment, consult your family doctor for a referral to an ENT specialist or a hospital-based audiology department. For assessments at private hearing test centres, you can directly contact clinics like Bravo Hearing Centre to schedule an appointment. While these may not be covered by OHIP, many centres offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized care.
Understanding ADP: Assistive Devices Program Funding
The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) is an Ontario government initiative that provides financial assistance for hearing aids and related devices. Eligible residents can receive up to 75% coverage, to a maximum of $500 per hearing aid, every five years. To qualify, you must:
- Be an Ontario resident with a valid health card.
- Have a documented hearing loss requiring the use of a hearing aid for six months or longer.
- Obtain the hearing aid from an ADP-registered vendor.
Note that ADP does not cover the cost of hearing tests themselves.
Additional Funding Sources for Hearing Aids
Beyond ADP, several programs can assist with the cost of hearing aids:
- Social Services: In Ontario, you could request to qualify for a one-time hardship fund, which, together with OHIP’s ADP Assistive Devices Program, can cover the cost of entry-level hearing aids. You require a hearing test, a hearing aid recommendation, a hearing aid quote, ADP from, and a contact for the social services office near you. All of the above can be provided at our office. When contacting them, you would request an over the telephone or in-person appointment for financial help in getting hearing aids.
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP): The Ontario Disability Support Program may cover the cost of your hearing aids. You will need a hearing test, a hearing aid recommendation, and a hearing aid quote from your hearing aid specialist.
- Ontario Works (OW): Offers support for low-income individuals, which may include assistance for hearing aids.
- Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC): Veterans Affairs Canada may cover the cost of your hearing aids. What you require is a hearing test, hearing aid recommendation, and a hearing aid quote from your hearing aid specialist. Group B Veterans may require an ADP Assistive Devices Form provided from the place the hearing assessment was performed.
- Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB): Workers Compensation is a form of insurance that provides medical benefits to employees injured in their place of work. It also may cover the cost of hearing aids. Speak with your hearing care provider to see if you may qualify.
- Private Medical Insurance: Many private and work medical insurances, including shared spousal benefits, may qualify you for hearing aid funding. This funding works in conjunction with the third-party payer, ADP. The coverage is individual, dependent on policy stipulations, and may cover a minimum or unlimited total sum per device once every 3-5 years. These policies can change and vary from one year to another. It is your responsibility to check your insurance provider for the most up to date information.
Eligibility and coverage amounts vary by program, so it’s advisable to consult with each directly or seek guidance from your hearing test centre.
FAQs About OHIP and Hearing Tests
Q: Can I get a hearing test without a doctor’s referral?
A: Yes, you can book a hearing test directly at private hearing test centres. However, these tests are typically not covered by OHIP.
Q: How often should I have my hearing tested?
A: It’s recommended to have your hearing evaluated every 1-2 years, especially if you’re over 60 or experiencing hearing difficulties.
Q: Are hearing tests at private clinics as reliable as those in hospitals?
A: Yes, private hearing test centres often use advanced equipment and employ certified audiologists to provide accurate assessments.
Q: Will my private insurance cover hearing tests?
A: Coverage varies by insurance plan. Check with your provider to determine if hearing assessments are included.
Book a Hearing Test at Bravo Hearing Centre
At Bravo Hearing Centre, we offer comprehensive hearing assessments tailored to your needs. Our experienced audiologists utilize state-of-the-art equipment to evaluate your hearing and provide personalized recommendations. While our services are not covered by OHIP, we strive to offer competitive pricing and assist with navigating funding options like ADP.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward better hearing health.
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