PAYING AGENCIES
How can I get my hearing aids paid for or reimbursed by paying agencies?
The cost of your hearing aids may be covered by some government agencies or private insurance companies. At Réseau Vos Oreilles, we’re here to guide you through the process of opening your file with these agencies.
Refund
Whether you qualify for a hearing loss compensation or would like to obtain a government-funded hearing aid, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to maximize your chances of reimbursement.
Have you ever worked in a noisy environment?
Whether you’re an active or retired worker, the CNESST (in Quebec) or the WSIB (in Ontario) refunds the cost of hearing aids for people suffering from occupational deafness, under certain conditions.
If your hearing loss is work-related, you may be eligible for compensation. To check your eligibility or get help opening your file, make an appointment at a Réseau Vos Oreilles branch near you!
What the CNESST or WSIB can provide:
- State-of-the-art, Bluetooth-enabled miniature hearing aids;
- Hearing aids to improve your listening experience (television, telephone, etc);
- Tinnitus maskers;
- Monetary compensation in some cases.
Which paying agencies can contribute to your hearing health?
Many government agencies and insurance companies cover the cost of hearing aids. You’ll need to provide an audiogram to verify your eligibility. Le Réseau Vos Oreilles can help you get started with the procedures.
RAMQ - Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec
The RAMQ reimburses the cost of hearing aids under certain conditions. To find out if you qualify, or to get help, contact us or visit the RAMQ website.
CNESST - Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail
The CNESST reimburses the cost of hearing aids for people suffering from occupational deafness. Whether you’re an active of retired worker, we can help you check your eligibility.
WSIB - Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario
The WSIB in Ontario reimburses hearing aids for people suffering from occupational deafness.
VAC - Veterans Affairs Canada
The department of Veterans Affairs reimburses hearing aids under certain conditions. Contact us or visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website for more details.
NIHB - Non-insured health benefits for First Nations
The NIHB program helps First Nations and Inuit people gain access to hearing aids. Eligibility requirements vary according to status.
IFHP - Interim Federal Health Program
The IFHP provides health services, including hearing aids, to people not covered by a provincial health insurance plan, such as refugees and asylum seekers.
Insurance companies
Most insurance companies provide partial reimbursement for hearing aids. To find out whether your insurance policy provides for such reimbursement, ask your insurer or contact us.
FAQ - Paying agencies and hearing aid reimbursement.
It depends on the paying agency and your insurance policy. Some reimbursements may be granted for lost, damaged or stolen hearing aids, but this depends on specific conditions. We recommend that you contact your home insurance, which usually covers this type of loss. We can also help you check whether you are eligible for reimbursement in these situations.
Yes, in most cases you’ll need to provide medical documents such as an audiogram, and sometimes a doctor’s report, to prove the need for a hearing aid. We’ll help you gather all the necessary documents.
Hearing aid accessories, such as batteries and maintenance products, may be reimbursed in some cases, depending on the criteria of the paying agency. It’s best to ask your insurer directly, or contact us for more information.
To check your eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact us or make an appointment. We’ll guide you through the audiogram process, and help you initiate the procedures with paying agencies.
Summary of the 4 types of hearing aids :
- “Invisible”: Mini behind-the-ear (BTE)
Very discreet, attaches behind the ear with an almost invisible tube or wire. Ideal for those seeking discretion and comfort. - “Invisible”: Peritympanic / CIC / IIC
Fits entirely in the ear canal, offering excellent sound quality. Suitable for moderate hearing loss. - “Classic model”: Behind-the-ear (BTE)
Placed behind the ear, it is suitable for mild to profound hearing loss. More visible, but offers many features and unmatched power. - “Classic model”: Full-shell or half-shell in-the-ear (ITE)
Fits within the ear, suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss. More visible than invisible models, but often more ergonomic and just as comfortable.
Paying agencies such as CNESST, RAMQ and private insurers can reimburse different types of hearing aids, including modern Bluetooth-compatible, rechargeable devices, and even specialized systems for tinnitus. Equipment varies according to your hearing condition and the agency’s criteria.
The time it takes to obtain a refund varies from one agency to another. Generally, it takes a few weeks.
Schedule your free initial consultation!
You have questions or would simply like to talk to a hearing health professional about your hearing difficulties? Book an appointment now. This no-cost offer is available at any time and requires no medical referral.
Test your hearing online
Use one of our two tools to detect the early signs of hearing loss.
Find a hearing clinic or point of service near you
Consult our directory to find a clinic or point of service near you!