Hearing Tests

A hearing test at Hearing First Audiology is a full audiological assessment. This assessment will identify the precise level of hearing impairment and possible causes, enabling accurate diagnosis prompt treatment and support to help you manage your hearing loss. Importantly, hearing tests can also identify problems you may not know you have, that may require medical intervention. The experienced audiologist at Hearing First Audiology will advise you if further medical intervention should be sought.

If you suspect a hearing problem, contact us today to talk with one of our Audiologists.

Diagnostic Hearing Test

Our standard diagnostic hearing assessment includes several tests:

Pure tone audiometry presents sounds at different frequencies, descending in volume to measure the hearing sensitivity in each ear. We construct an audiogram based on the results, showing the softest tone heard – the hearing threshold level. The audiogram enables the diagnosis of hearing loss and which part of the ear is damaged.

The impedance test assesses the function of the middle ear. It also measures the acoustic reflex which gives information about inner ear function.

Speech recognition tests assist in the overall diagnosis of hearing loss by determining at what volume you can hear speech clearly. The Independent Hearing Centre conducts this test as a routine part of an overall hearing assessment. It is essential in identifying the correct hearing solution.

Other tests such as speech in noise tests, tinnitus frequency matching, loudness discomfort testing and a range of questionnaires may all be used in a thorough diagnostic hearing assessment.

Children’s Hearing Tests

Hearing loss in children can have a significant impact on their development, so if you suspect any hearing problem, it is critical to check your child’s hearing. Children may experience temporary fluctuating hearing as a result of recurrent ear infections or more permanent hearing loss as a result of family history or other contributing factors. Whatever the cause it is essential that childhood hearing loss is identified as early as possible. If you have any concern about your child’s hearing contact IHC for an appointment.

Hearing Tests for children are similar to those used for adults, and the audiologists at Hearing First Audiology are experienced in testing children over 5 years of age. A modified test process using play audiometry is used between the ages of 5 and approximately 8.

Hearing tests for DVA and Pensioner Concession Card holders

The Hearing First Audiology can offer FREE hearing services for eligible pensioners and DVA clients through our accreditation with the federal government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP)

• FREE hearing tests
• FREE hearing aids/devices
• No waiting time for government approval. Instant eligibility check.

We can offer:

The HSP program includes a comprehensive range of hearing aids free of charge. Options are also available to upgrade to more sophisticated devices with additional private cost contributions. Costs can vary greatly between devices and styles, and more expensive does not always mean better hearing.

Referrals

You do not need a referral to meet with our audiologists, undertake an audiological assessment or have hearing devices fitted.

However, if you wish to claim any government assistance for a hearing assessment, you will need to visit your GP for a referral, to enable your claim.

If your audiological assessment uncovers a condition that requires medical intervention, we will refer you to your GP, or appropriate medical specialist for your condition and explain the treatment pathway.

Assisted Hearing

After a full audiological assessment and diagnosis of your specific hearing problem, our audiologists will recommend individualised solutions if appropriate. This often, though not always, involves some form of hearing device. IHC audiologists have access to all available hearing devices and will help you to find the best solution for your needs.

Hearing aids and hearing implants vary in size and style and how they fit in your ear; but they all carry the same basic parts that carry external sounds, most importantly speech, to your ear. Some are so small they are invisible on most people; others fit wholly or partly into the ear canal. Others fit behind the ear with a very slim tube/wire running in to the canal. Hearing aid technology is improving and evolving all the time.Our audiologists ensure that they are up to date with the most recent developments and will only suggest the most technologically advanced solutions.