FAQ

QAre hearing aids effective? Should I wear two?
AHearing aids are effective, but don't forget that they need to be adjusted by an audioprosthetist and that the adjustment is different for every person. It is generally recommended to wear two hearing aids (one in each ear), to improve speech understanding, especially in noisy environments. For more information, consult an audioprosthetist practicing in a Lobe clinic.

QAre there any fees for a complete hearing assessment?
ASome fees are applicable. The services of audiologists may be reimbursed in part by the CNESST (with medical prescription), Veterans Affairs Canada, and most private insurance plans.

QAre there any fees for the maintenance of my hearing aids bought in a Lobe clinic?
ANo, there are no fees for the maintenance of your hearing aids bought in a Lobe clinic.

QDo I need a prescription to consult a professional practicing in a Lobe clinic?
AA prescription is required to consult an ENT specialist. However, you can make an appointment with an audiologist, an audioprosthetist or a speech-language pathologist without a prescription.

QDoes the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) cover the fees related to hearing aids?
AAccording to some eligibility criteria, the RAMQ can pay for one or two hearing aids. For more information about the eligibility criteria, consult an audioprosthetist practicing in a Lobe clinic.

QHow is the complete hearing assessment done?
AThe process of a hearing assessment can vary depending on the needs and the type of clientele. To learn more about it, read the article Hearing assessment in the section Services.

QHow often should I do the maintenance of my hearing aids?
AIn addition to daily care, you should make two appointments in a Lobe clinic every year for a check-up and maintenance of your hearing aids.

QHow often should we have a hearing assessment?
AIt is recommended to have a hearing assessment from the age of 50. Depending on the results, the audiologist will make some recommendations, such as having a hearing assessment every two years or wearing hearing aids. Workers in noisy environments should also have a hearing assessment every two years. For children, we recommand a hearing assessment before starting school. Everyone should have their hearing assessed to have a basic measure. Also, we suggest to have your hearing assessed if you have any doubts or symptoms.

QHow should I prepare for a complete hearing assessment?
ASixteen hours of reprieve from noise, that means no excessive or continued noise exposure, are required in order to have a hearing assessment. This precaution avoids measuring a temporary noise-induced hearing loss due to auditory fatigue.

QI have an earwax buildup, can I make an appointment for a complete hearing assessment?
AIt's important to have your earwax buildup removed before your appointment in order to have reliable results.

QI have sudden hearing loss, what should I do?
AIn case of sudden hearing loss, it's important to quickly consult an audiologist or an ENT specialist within 72 hours after the sudden hearing loss to maximize your chances of recovery.

QI work in a noisy environment. What should I do to protect my hearing?
AIf you work in a noisy environment, it's important to wear hearing protectors. According to the World Health Organization, half of all cases of hearing loss could be avoided through prevention.

QIs it true that tinnitus can't be treated?
A There are several techniques to reduce the impact of tinnitus, here are a few: relaxation techniques and stress management, healthy lifestyle habits (avoiding salt, alcohol and cigarette), and noise generators or hearing aids that broadcast sound to hide tinnitus and bring the attention to something else. For more information, consult an audiologist practicing in Lobe clinics.

QIs the semi-annual appointment with my audioprosthetist mandatory?
AThis free follow-up is not mandatory, but we strongly recommend it. The audioprosthetist will do a check-up to make sure that your hearing aids are working well. The professional will clean your hearing aids and change some pieces if needed.

QWhat are the signs of hearing loss?
AThere are numerous and various signs of hearing loss. Here are a few examples: you often ask people to repeat themselves, you increase the TV volume, you have trouble understanding speech in noisy environments, you have difficulty hearing certain sounds, especially high frequency sounds (e.g. phone ringtone, birds singing), etc.

QWhat should I do if I think I have hearing loss?
AIt is recommended to have your hearing assessed by an audiologist practicing in a Lobe clinic. You can also do a hearing screening that will provide an overview of your hearing. To have a hearing assessment or a hearing screening, make an appointment in a Lobe clinic by calling 1 866 411-5623.

QWhere can I buy assistive listening devices (headphones, adapted alarm clocks, smoke detectors, etc.)?
AYou can buy assistive listening devices at the Integrated University Health and Social Services Centres (CIUSSS). The fees can be reimbursed by the RAMQ, according to some eligibility criteria. You can also buy assistive listening devices in Lobe clinics, with some fees.