Hearing tests and assessments
We go beyond normal hearing tests
When you visit Audiology First, you’ll notice that our clinic has a diverse range of diagnostic equipment. We pride ourselves on using these tools to help with correct and accurate diagnosis.
Complete hearing assessments
When you arrive, our clinicians will get an initial understanding of the purpose of your visit with us and combine this information with a brief medical case history. We may ask about previous tests, ear injuries, symptoms, medications, and other factors influencing your hearing results.
A complete hearing assessment is made up of at least seven different tests and can take between 40 and 60 minutes.
We cross-check multiple findings to provide you with an accurate understating of how well your hearing system is working.
Baseline tests
Basic or screening tests are referred to as 'baseline tests,' which are often requested for jobs that use loud equipment or individuals working in the armed forces. Your initial comprehensive assessment may also be called a 'baseline' or first test, which may be used for future comparison.
A basic screening test usually takes about 15 minutes and does not cover as much detail as a complete hearing assessment. The baseline screening test may not provide quite as much diagnostic detail but can point towards the need for further comprehensive testing or rule out significant hearing loss.
Understanding your results
Being told you have a hearing loss can be overwhelming or distressing. For others, the news comes as a reassurance and confirmation of what was long suspected.
Our Audiologists and Hearing Care Specialists are trained to explain test results in a clear and considerate way. We encourage questions and open discussion and value your thoughts and input during the learning process. We also encourage you to bring a close family member or friend to your hearing test, both for valuable support for yourself and to help us understand communication dynamics.
Together, we’ll discuss the results to get a holistic understanding of what the results mean for you and your daily life. We will set reachable goals for rehabilitation together.
Personalized treatment plan
After you complete a hearing assessment and receive our evaluation, the next step is to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will be unique to your hearing challenges lifestyle and take into account any special considerations.
If you benefit from hearing aids, we’ll outline the types of technology that are the best fit. We provide at least a 30-day trial period for all hearing aid candidates.
Hearing aids will never be recommended if they are not necessary.
If you’re not a good candidate for hearing aids, we will be clear on the best options for you.
Some people may need to see another doctor or specialist to treat the underlying reason for the hearing issue.
Other treatments, such as cochlear implants or bone-anchored hearing devices, may also be recommended. We can make the appropriate referrals to begin exploring those options.
Audiology First Are Vendors For:
Workers Compensation (WCB Alberta)
We can provide you with your initial assessment as part of your WCB claim for hearing loss. We are also able to see existing WCB users for hearing aid upgrades, hearing aid repairs, adjustments, hearing tests, and any other services they may require. We apply the same level of attention to detail for all of our hearing tests and hearing loss treatment plans, regardless of the coverage.
For more information on the worker's compensation process, or to download the WCB hearing loss application form, click here.
We are registered as AADL providers, which means we have access to all applicable provincial hearing aid subsidies for patients. We make this process simple for you, and we will discuss which level of coverage you are eligible for or when you will become suitable in the future.
We apply the same level of attention to detail for all of our hearing tests and hearing loss treatment plans, regardless of the coverage.
Federal Programs (DVA, RCMP, VAC, NIHB)
We are an authorized center for Canada's Federal programs (veteran's affairs, RCMP members, First Nations). We offer services such as hearing tests, new hearing aids, repairs, adjustments, and all hearing care services. When the time comes to replace your older hearing aids, we will provide you with the most appropriate technology available. We are proud to support indigenous people and apply the same level of attention to detail for all of our hearing tests and hearing loss treatment plans, regardless of the coverage.