Diagnostic Hearing Test
Hearing tests may be completed at any age, from birth to the elderly. Results and recommendations are fully explained and there is NO obligation following the test. The specific battery of tests selected will depend on the individual’s age and ability.
Adult Hearing Tests
A hearing test is recommended whenever there is difficulty hearing, tinnitus (noise heard in the ears or head), balance issues, significant noise exposure, and/or use of ototoxic medication. It is also recommended that every adult have at least one test completed between the ages of 21 to 60 years. This test will act as a baseline for future comparison.
Children Hearing Tests
In Ontario, all newborns are offered a hearing screening shortly after birth. Even though a child has passed a newborn hearing screening, it is important to have hearing evaluated regularly as he or she grows. A hearing test is particularly important whenever a child has trouble listening, shows low attention, has a speech-language delay, or if there are other social, emotional, or behavioural concerns. In some cases hearing problems emerge later in childhood due to events like infections, high noise exposure, or ear/head trauma. If there are no concerns with hearing and the child has passed the newborn hearing screening, we suggest scheduling a routine hearing test at least by 4 to 5 years of age.
Types of Hearing Tests
Speech Audiometry
Depending on the individual’s age and abilities, speech audiometry includes turning to speech, pointing to pictures, or repeating words presented at soft or comfortable volumes.
Conventional Audiometry
Conventional testing is typically completed on individuals who are 5 years and older. The individual will either press a button or raise a hand when they hear a tonal sound.
Conditional Play Audiometry
Conditioned Play Audiometry is often performed on individuals who are developmentally 3 to 5 years of age. The child learns to listen for a sound and respond through a play task (e.g. dropping toys in a bucket, placing pegs on a board, etc.).
Visual Reinforcement Audiometry
Visual Reinforcement Audiometry is typically completed on developmental ages 7 months to 3 years. Testing includes conditioning or teaching the child to turn towards the presented sound. The audiologist will play a sound and then reward the child for turning their head by showing a light-up toy.
Auditory Brainstem Response
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) is typically completed on individuals who cannot do a regular hearing test, such as infants under 7 months of age. An audiologist will put sticker electrodes on the child’s head and carefully place small earphones into the ear. The audiologist will present sounds through the earphones and measure how the ear and brain respond. The ABR is completed while the child sleeps naturally at the clinic (without sedation). It is a safe and painless method used to accurately estimate hearing.
Otoacoustic Emissions
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are an objective measure of the outer hair cells in the inner ear. It can also indicate if there is a blockage in the canal or the presence of middle ear fluid. Sounds are presented through a small probe placed in the ear canal.
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is an objective test of middle ear pressure, ear canal volume, and eardrum movement. A small probe is placed in the canal and the machine produces pressure changes and a tonal sound.
Acoustic Reflex
Acoustic reflex is another objective assessment that measures the contraction of the stapedius muscle in response to a loud sound.
Referrals and Hearing Tests
The physician referral form may be completed and submitted online (see below) OR downloaded and faxed to our office at (416) 398-6262. With a referral note, OHIP provides partial coverage for the hearing assessment. The OHIP fee schedule does NOT include an Audiology Consultation Fee. Due to this partial coverage, there is a $47 fee not covered by OHIP. Without a referral note, the fee for a hearing assessment is $79.
There is no charge for routine hearing tests for children under the Infant Hearing Program (IHP). The IHP provides services to children from birth to 6 years of age with permanent hearing loss, or for those who are at risk for permanent hearing loss.
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We would be happy to discuss suitable options with you.