How much does a hearing test cost?

Hearing tests at Owl Hearing Clinic are free of charge for Adults.

Hearing test are available for children aged 4-17 years old and cost $75.

Our hearing tests are performed by a registered audiologist, are comprehensive, and includes a full investigation into the patient’s hearing and ear health. A full medical report is included and can be provided to the patient and family physician upon request.

What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing specialist?

Audiologists in Ontario hold either a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Audiology, which involves extensive training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing and balance disorders for children and adults including hearing aids and assistive listening devices.  They are licensed and regulated healthcare professionals governed under the College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists (CASLPO).

Hearing Instrument Specialists on the other hand are able to complete their education immediately after high school at a college offering the program.  Their focus is testing hearing and fitting, servicing, and maintenance of hearing aids in the adult population.  They are non-regulated professionals.

In order to access OHIP coverage for hearing aids through the Assistive Device Program (ADP), hearing aids must be prescribed by either a licensed physician or a registered audiologist.  Most private insurance benefit plans require a prescription from a licensed physician or a registered audiologist in order to access coverage.

Should I see my doctor or an audiologist?

See an audiologist for hearing related concerns such as difficulty hearing, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), delay in language development in children, ear wax removal and hearing aid evaluation and fitting.

See a doctor for medical concerns such as pain, drainage, and bleeding in the ears or fever. If you experience sudden and significant hearing loss, especially if it occurs suddenly and is associated with other symptoms like vertigo, it’s important to see a doctor promptly.

if you’re not sure what route is best, we’re always happy to offer advice on when and with whom to book an appointment- just give us a call.

How does a hearing test work, and what can I expect during my appointment?

A hearing test, usually takes between 45-75 min. It begins with a discussion about your hearing health history and any concerns you may have. Then, in a sound-treated room or booth, you’ll wear headphones through which various sounds and speech at different volumes and frequencies are played. You’ll be asked to respond in some way, often by pressing a button, whenever you hear a sound. This helps in assessing the softest level of sound you can hear at various pitches.

The audiologist may also conduct tests to check the health of your ear drum and the function of your middle ear. Sometimes, speech understanding tests are included to evaluate how well you can hear and understand speech in quiet or noisy environments.

The entire process is painless and non-invasive. After the test, the audiologist will discuss the results with you, explain your hearing levels, and recommend any necessary next steps, such as hearing aids or further medical evaluation.

Does OHIP cover the cost of Hearing Aids?

Yes, for all Ontario residents, OHIP offers partial coverage for hearing aids under the Assistive Devices Program (ADP). This program grants $500 per ear, available once every 2-5 years as needed. Owl Hearing Clinic will provide all the forms you need and will direct bill OHIP so you won’t need to wait for reimbursement.

How much do hearing aids cost?

At Owl Hearing Clinic, we’re committed to transparent pricing for our hearing aids.  You can find all our prices easily on our website.  For an in-depth look at our hearing aid costs, [click here].

For a quick overview: after OHIP coverage, the complete cost of a hearing aid along with all included services is between $1,100 to $2,600 per ear.  This is, on average, $500-$1,000 less than many of our competitors.  The price you see is what you pay, covering everything from dispensing/fitting services to batteries, warranties, and follow-up appointments.

What types of hearing aids are available, and how do I choose the right one?

Did you know that most large hearing aid chain clinics are owned by hearing aid manufacturers?

As an independent clinic, Owl Hearing isn’t financially tied to any specific hearing aid manufacturer.  This allows us to offer a wide variety of brands and models to suit every need and preference.

Whether you’re looking for small, nearly invisible hearing aids or more powerful options for more severe hearing loss, we have you covered.  We also carry the latest 2024 models featuring rechargeable batteries and wireless connectivity.  Our team is dedicated to educating you about all available options, ensuring you find the perfect hearing aid that meets your listening goals and fits within your budget. Click to read our comprehensive ‘hearing aid buying guide’ for more information.