Audiology Program

Why should I choose the Audiology Team at Hotel Dieu Shaver for my hearing healthcare needs?

Our Team is friendly and helpful, uses state-of-the-art equipment and our audiologists are knowledgeable in all the latest technology. The audiologists are all registered members of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologist of Ontario (CASLPO). But most of all, we are here to LISTEN to your needs and work with you to come up with a solution to your hearing difficulties in order to keep you connected to the lifestyle you want.

Do I need a doctor’s referral for a hearing test?

Referrals are not necessary, but are recommended.

Will I have to pay for my hearing test?

No, your hearing test is covered under the global budget of the Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre.

What happens if I need hearing aids?

If we determine that hearing aids may be appropriate for you, together, we will explore several options to help you decide what best suits your needs. You will be given a prescription for a specific hearing aid and the necessary paperwork to obtain this device at the dispenser of your choice.

Do you dispense hearing aids?

Yes, we have been dispensing hearing aids for patients throughout the Niagara Region since 1998. Our fully-certified staff is experienced in fitting hearing aids of all the different manufacturers and for patients of all ages.

What happens to the proceeds from the Hotel Dieu Shaver Hearing Aid Dispensary?

All proceeds are re-invested into Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre to allow for continual organizational improvements to benefit our patients, programs and the community. Our audiologists do not receive a commission for selling hearing aids. We make our recommendation based on your hearing loss, your lifestyle and your hearing needs.

Are hearing aids expensive? How can I pay for my hearing aids?

Hearing Aids vary in cost. Most Ontario residents can receive funding through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), which contributes a maximum of $500 per ear toward the cost of hearing aids. Some individuals may be eligible for hearing aid funding under WSIB, DVA, ODSP, ACSD, private insurances or other agencies. Prior to your fitting, funding options will be discussed with you. Any balances owing may be paid by cash, debit, major credit card (VISA, Mastercard or American Express) or certified cheque on the day you are fitted with your hearing aids. Unfortunately, we cannot accept personal cheques.

What is a dispensing fee?

A dispensing fee is the amount of money you will be charged above the cost of the hearing aid, earmolds or ear impressions and shipping. It includes the hearing aid evaluation, fitting, computer programming of the hearing aid, verification of the appropriateness of the fit, programming adjustments for two years, and a care kit.

What if I do not like my hearing aids?

You have a 30-day trial fitting period. If you are not satisfied with your hearing aids, you may exchange or return them. Unfortunately, for returned hearing aids, we cannot refund a portion of the fitting fee, cost of custom earmolds or ear impressions and shipping.

What should I do with my old hearing aids?

We accept donations of old hearing aids and pass them along to charitable organizations around the world.

Is my six-month old child too young to have a hearing test?

No, a hearing test can be done at any age. All of our audiologists are trained to test children through the Infant Hearing Program of Ontario.

My child has frequent middle ear infections. Will this affect his/her hearing?

Middle ear infections that are associated with fluid in the middle ear can cause a mild hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is usually temporary, can last for weeks or even months and requires medical attention.

Where are you located?

The Audiology Program and Hearing Aid Dispensary is located through the front doors of the Out-Patient Building at 541 Glenridge Avenue, St. Catharines.

Do I need to pay for parking?

Yes, you can pay by the hour or by the day at any of our Park Link machines located throughout our parking lot.

Can I Book A Hearing Test Online?

Yes! A contact form is now available on our website.