Hearing Aids

6-9 Hearing Aids


PURPOSE



1. To ensure applicants receive professional hearing assessments and appropriate hearing aids. (Persons eligible for the Disability Support Program are not eligible for any of the following services.)



PRINCIPLE



2. Hearing assessments should be completed by a Certified Audiologist in consultation with a family physician or ear, nose and throat specialist.



POLICY



3. Hearing aids shall only be authorized if a prescription has been issued by a Certified Audiologist.



4. The level of hearing loss is determined by the average threshold or decibel level at four frequencies: 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz. Funding shall be authorized if the average decibel level at these four frequencies is 50 dB or greater.



5. Funding for clients assessed below 50 dB shall only be approved in exceptional situations upon recommendation by the Audiologist and the Department.



6. Funding may be approved up to a maximum of $1,500 per hearing aid.



7. Children receive priority in the Audiology Program and may be referred directly by staff of the Department. Adults with hearing problems shall be referred to their family physician.



PROCEDURE



8. The Certified Audiologist notifies the Social Assistance office of hearing assessment and specifies recommended hearing aid.