Hearing Tests in Calgary: Cost, What to Expect, and AADL Coverage

If you are noticing changes in your hearing, a hearing test can help you understand what is happening. This guide explains who performs hearing tests in Calgary, what they might cost, how Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) may help with hearing aids, and what to expect during your appointment.

Who Performs Hearing Tests in Calgary?

In Calgary, two main types of professionals can perform hearing tests: audiologists and hearing aid practitioners.

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in identifying, assessing, and managing hearing and balance disorders. They hold a master's or doctoral degree in audiology. In Alberta, audiologists are regulated by the Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA) [1]. This means they must meet specific education and practice standards to be registered and to use protected titles like "audiologist." You can verify an audiologist's registration on the ACSLPA website [1].

Hearing aid practitioners (sometimes called hearing instrument specialists) are professionals who are trained to conduct hearing evaluations and fit, dispense, and adjust hearing aids. They focus on the practical application of hearing aids.

Many clinics in Calgary offer "no-charge" or "free" hearing screening tests. These screenings are often a brief check of your hearing and may be part of a consultation for hearing aids. When booking an appointment advertised as "no-charge," it is important to confirm what the appointment includes and whether a fee applies for a full diagnostic assessment or any related services.

You can find a list of local clinics that offer hearing services at our Calgary hearing clinics hub. For more information on the profession in the province, see our article on the state of audiology in Calgary.

Understanding the Cost of a Hearing Test

The cost of a hearing test in Calgary can vary depending on several factors. It is a good idea to ask about fees when you book your appointment.

What Affects the Cost? * Type of test: A quick hearing screening test may cost less, or even be offered at no charge, especially if it is part of a hearing aid consultation. A comprehensive diagnostic hearing assessment, which provides a more detailed picture of your hearing health, typically has a fee. * Included services: The cost may also depend on whether the assessment includes a detailed report for your doctor or specific referral letters. * Professional: Fees may differ slightly between audiologists and hearing aid practitioners, reflecting their different scopes of practice and regulatory requirements.

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) Coverage Routine adult hearing tests are generally not covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). However, AHCIP coverage can change, and there may be specific situations where some hearing-related services are covered. To confirm what is currently covered by AHCIP, you should visit the official Government of Alberta AHCIP website [3].

Extended Health Benefits Many private extended health insurance plans offered through employers or purchased individually do cover a portion of the cost of hearing assessments. It is wise to check with your insurance provider directly to understand your specific coverage details, including any deductible amounts or annual limits.

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) Program

The Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) program is a provincial cost-sharing program that helps eligible Albertans with the cost of medical equipment and supplies, including hearing aids.

How AADL Works AADL provides a financial benefit to help you purchase hearing aids if you meet their eligibility criteria. The program sets the specific eligibility requirements and the amount of financial assistance available. This means that if you qualify, AADL will cover a portion of the cost, and you would be responsible for the remaining amount.

To learn more about the AADL program, including detailed eligibility requirements and how to apply, you should visit the official Government of Alberta AADL website [2]. Your audiologist or hearing aid practitioner can also often help you understand the AADL application process.

What Happens During a Hearing Test?

A comprehensive hearing test is straightforward and non-invasive. Plan for roughly an hour, though the length varies by clinic and by what the assessment includes.

1. Case History: The professional will start by asking you questions about your medical history, any medications you take, and your specific hearing concerns. They will want to know when you first noticed changes, if you have ringing in your ears (tinnitus), if you've had ear infections, or if you've been exposed to loud noises.
2. Ear Examination: They will look inside your ears using a special light (otoscope) to check for any blockages, such as earwax, or signs of infection that might affect your hearing.
3. Hearing Tests in a Sound Booth: You will then go into a sound-treated booth. This quiet room ensures that outside noises do not interfere with the test results. You will wear headphones or sometimes small insert earphones.
   • Pure-Tone Audiometry: You will hear a series of beeps or tones at different pitches (frequencies) and loudness levels. You will be asked to press a button or raise your hand each time you hear a sound, no matter how soft it is. This helps determine the quietest sound you can hear at each pitch.
   • Bone Conduction Testing: Sometimes, a small vibrating device is placed behind your ear or on your forehead. This tests how well sound travels through the bones of your head directly to your inner ear, bypassing the outer and middle ear. This helps the professional understand if a hearing loss is due to a problem in the outer/middle ear or the inner ear.
   • Speech Audiometry: You may also be asked to repeat words or sentences presented at different volumes. This tests your ability to hear and understand speech, which is often a primary concern for people with hearing loss.
4. Audiogram: After the tests, the professional will explain your results. These are typically plotted on a graph called an audiogram. An audiogram shows the softest sounds you can hear at different pitches for each ear. This visual representation helps you understand the degree and type of any hearing loss you may have.
5. Discussion and Recommendations: Based on your results, the professional will discuss what they mean for you. They can assess whether your hearing is within typical limits or if there is a hearing loss. If a hearing loss is identified, they will talk about potential causes and discuss options, which might include medical referral, hearing aids, or other strategies to help you hear better.

How to Prepare for Your Hearing Test

To make the most of your appointment, consider these tips:

• List Your Concerns: Write down specific situations where you notice hearing difficulties. For example, "I struggle to hear in noisy restaurants" or "I often ask people to repeat themselves."
• Gather Medical History: Be ready to share information about your general health, any ear infections, head injuries, medications you take, and any family history of hearing loss.
• Bring a Companion: If possible, bring a family member or friend who can help you recall information or take notes during the discussion of your results. They can also share their observations about your hearing.
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions during or after the test. Understanding your results and options is important.
• Avoid Loud Noise Beforehand: Try to avoid very loud environments for a day or two before your test, as this can temporarily affect your hearing.

The Bottom Line

Taking a hearing test is an important step if you suspect you have hearing changes. Knowing who performs these tests, understanding the potential costs and coverage options like AADL, and knowing what to expect during the appointment can help you feel more prepared. A licensed audiologist or hearing aid practitioner can assess your hearing and help you understand the best path forward for your specific needs.

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