How to Choose an Audiologist in Calgary (and When a Hearing Aid Practitioner Fits)

If you are noticing changes in your hearing, or if you have concerns about your ears, finding the right professional to help you is an important first step. In Alberta, there are two main types of regulated professionals who can help with hearing concerns: audiologists and hearing aid practitioners.

Understanding the differences between these two professions can help you choose the best path for your specific needs. Neither profession is "better" than the other; they simply have different areas of focus and training.

Understanding Hearing Professionals in Alberta

Both audiologists and hearing aid practitioners are regulated in Alberta. This means they must meet specific education, training, and ethical standards to practice.

Audiologists

Audiologists are regulated by the Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA) [1]. They have a broad scope of practice related to hearing, balance, and related disorders. Their training usually includes a master's or doctoral degree.

Audiologists can: * Perform comprehensive diagnostic hearing assessments for all ages, from infants to seniors. * Diagnose the type and degree of hearing loss. * Assess and manage conditions like tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and balance disorders. * Fit and dispense hearing aids and other assistive listening devices. * Provide counselling and rehabilitation for hearing loss. * Work with complex cases that may involve other medical conditions.

You can verify if an audiologist is registered and in good standing by checking the public register on the ACSLPA website [1].

Hearing Aid Practitioners

Hearing aid practitioners are regulated by the College of Hearing Aid Practitioners of Alberta (CHAPA) [2]. Their primary focus is on assessing hearing for the purpose of fitting and selling hearing aids.

Hearing aid practitioners can: * Conduct hearing tests to determine if hearing aids are needed. * Select, fit, and dispense hearing aids and other listening devices. * Provide counselling on the use and care of hearing aids. * Offer follow-up care and adjustments for hearing aids.

You can verify if a hearing aid practitioner is registered and in good standing by checking the public register on the CHAPA website [2].

When an Audiologist May Be a Better Fit

While both professionals can help with hearing aid fitting, certain situations commonly point towards seeing an audiologist first due to their broader diagnostic training and scope. A licensed audiologist can assess whether their services fit your needs.

Consider seeing an audiologist if you: * Are seeking care for a child: Audiologists are trained to assess hearing in infants, toddlers, and school-aged children, which often requires specialized techniques. * Have sudden hearing changes: If your hearing has changed suddenly in one or both ears, an audiologist can help determine the cause and guide you on next steps, which may include a referral to a medical doctor. * Experience hearing loss in only one ear: This can be a sign of underlying medical issues that require a comprehensive diagnostic assessment. * Have dizziness or balance problems: Audiologists can assess the connection between hearing and balance systems and identify potential causes for these symptoms. * Experience tinnitus: If you have ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in your ears, an audiologist can help determine its cause and discuss management strategies. * Have a complex medical history: If you have other health conditions that might affect your hearing, an audiologist's comprehensive diagnostic approach can be beneficial.

For general information on hearing clinics in Calgary, you can visit our Calgary hearing clinics hub.

Important Questions to Ask Any Clinic

Before choosing a clinic, asking a few key questions can help you make an informed decision.

• Clinic Independence: Ask if the clinic is independently owned or affiliated with a specific hearing aid manufacturer. Some clinics are owned by manufacturers and may primarily offer their own brands. An independent clinic may offer a wider range of brands and models, potentially giving you more choices.
• Trial Periods: Inquire about trial periods for hearing aids. Many clinics offer a trial period during which you can return or exchange the hearing aids if they don't meet your needs. Understand the length of the trial and any associated fees.
• Follow-Up Care: Ask what follow-up appointments and services are included in the price of hearing aids. This often includes adjustments, cleaning, and minor repairs for a certain period. Understanding what's covered can help you compare overall value.
• Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) Vendor Status: The Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) program provides cost-shared benefits for eligible Albertans, which can include hearing aids [3]. If you might be eligible for AADL, ask if the clinic is an approved AADL vendor. This means they can process your application and provide services under the program's guidelines. The program sets eligibility criteria and benefit amounts.

You can find more context about hearing care in the city by reading our Calgary audiology data page.

Red Flags to Watch For

When choosing a hearing professional, be aware of certain practices that might suggest the clinic is not the best fit for you.

• Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of clinics that use high-pressure sales tactics, push for immediate decisions, or discourage you from seeking a second opinion. A reputable clinic will allow you time to consider your options.
• Unwillingness to Share Your Audiogram: Your audiogram is a chart that shows your hearing test results. It is your health information. A professional clinic should be willing to provide you with a copy of your audiogram and other test results if you request them. This allows you to understand your hearing better and share the information with other healthcare providers if needed.

What This Means for You

Choosing a hearing professional in Calgary involves understanding the roles of audiologists and hearing aid practitioners. For comprehensive diagnostic assessments, complex cases, or specific concerns like tinnitus or balance issues, an audiologist's broader scope may be more appropriate. If your primary need is a hearing aid fitting based on a straightforward hearing test, a hearing aid practitioner can provide excellent service.

By asking the right questions and being aware of potential red flags, you can find a professional who meets your needs and helps you manage your hearing health effectively. A licensed professional can assess your individual situation and guide you toward the most suitable care.

Ready to take the next step?

Two ways to connect with regulated care near you:

Tell us what’s going on — answer a few quick questions and we’ll connect you with clinics in your area. Get connected →

Prefer to look yourself? Browse regulated care clinics near you — locations, contact details, and booking where available. Find clinics near you →

If any of the urgent warning signs described above apply to you, don't wait for an appointment — seek medical care now.