Hearing health care is evolving in Canada, with a focus on patient-centred care and innovative technology. According to a recent report, there are over 1.5 million Canadians living with some degree of hearing loss, and this number is expected to increase as the population ages. As a result, the demand for hearing healthcare services is growing, and we here at Access Hearing Centre are adapting to meet the changing needs of our patients.
How is Hearing Health Care Evolving?
One way that hearing health care is evolving is through a focus on providing patient-centred care. This means that we are tailoring our services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each patient. For example, Access Hearing Centre offers personalized hearing solutions that are tailored to our patient's lifestyles, hearing needs, and budgets. This can include options like rechargeable hearing aids, waterproof hearing aids, or Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids that can connect to smartphones or other devices.
To support patient-centred care, we at Access Hearing Centre are also offering comprehensive hearing assessments. These assessments can include a range of tests and evaluations, such as using a variety of equipment. By conducting a thorough assessment, Access can better understand our patient's hearing needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.
The Accessible Technology Program
As hearing health care continues to evolve, there are also efforts underway to improve access to care for all Canadians. For example, the Government of Canada recently launched the Accessible Technology Program, which provides funding for the development of assistive technologies, including hearing aids. The program aims to make these technologies more affordable and accessible for Canadians with disabilities, including those with hearing loss.
The following is quoted from Canada.ca explaining the program’s goals:
“All Canadians have the right to fully participate in society. Advancing accessibility is about creating barrier-free communities, workplaces and services for all Canadians. This is especially important to the more than 6 million Canadians, aged 15 and over, who have a disability.
Access to technology and to the Internet is essential in developing and maintaining the professional, social, economic and cultural networks necessary to fully participate in society and the digital economy. Unfortunately, many Canadians still face significant barriers to accessing technology and the Internet.
Since 2017, the program has supported the development of over 28 solutions and is ready to continue this work with innovators and entrepreneurs to make a difference in the lives of Canadians with disabilities.”
Provincial Hearing Loss Support Programs
In addition, some provinces offer financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of hearing aids and related services.
For example, in British Columbia, the BCEA ministry offers programs like, “Alternative Hearing Assistance Supplement” where eligible persons' costs associated with overcoming barriers related to having permanent profound bilateral hearing loss can be supplemented. Or the “Medical Equipment & Devices” program which provides medical equipment and devices under the Employment and Assistance Regulation and the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Regulation.
Other provinces, such as Alberta’s “Alberta Aids to Daily Living” program(see link below).
Here is more information on these BC programs and more that can help you:
BC Alternative Hearing Assistance
BC Medical Equipment & Devices
Alberta Aids to Daily Living
Visiting Access Hearing Centre
Access Hearing Centre is committed to providing our patients with a comfortable and personalized experience that meets their unique hearing needs. The centre achieves this by focusing on three key areas: a comfortable environment, customized planning, and clear communication.
Firstly, we at Access Hearing Centre ensure that our patients are provided with a comfortable environment where they can feel relaxed and at ease. The centre recognizes that visiting a hearing clinic can be intimidating and uncomfortable for some people, so it strives to create a welcoming atmosphere that puts patients at ease. This includes a clean and well-lit waiting area, comfortable seating, and both friendly and approachable staff who are there to answer any questions and address any concerns.
Secondly, we at Access Hearing Centre offer customized planning that is tailored to each patient's unique hearing needs. We understand that every patient is different and has unique hearing requirements, so it takes a personalized approach to treatment planning. This includes a thorough hearing assessment to identify the specific nature and degree of hearing loss, as well as a discussion with the patient to understand their lifestyle, communication needs, and personal preferences. Based on this information, the centre creates a customized treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient's needs and goals.
Finally, we at Access Hearing Centre place a strong emphasis on clear communication throughout the treatment process. We recognize that effective communication is essential to ensuring that patients are comfortable and informed about their treatment options and progress. This includes providing clear and concise information about hearing tests, treatment options, and hearing aids. The centre also encourages open and honest communication with our patients as we take the time to answer any questions and address any concerns they may have.
Overall, Access Hearing Centre is committed to providing our patients with a comfortable and personalized experience that is tailored to their unique hearing needs. With a focus on a comfortable environment, customized planning, and clear communication, the centre strives to ensure that each patient receives the care and support they need to achieve their hearing goals and improve their quality of life.
The Future of Hearing Health Care
In conclusion, hearing health care is evolving in Canada to meet the growing demand for services and to provide more patient-centred care. We are using innovative technology to improve our patient experience and to offer more flexible scheduling options to make care more accessible. Efforts are also underway to improve access to hearing aids and related services through financial assistance programs and other initiatives.
If you are living with hearing loss, it is important to speak with a hearing healthcare provider who can offer personalized care and support much like us at Access Hearing Centre.
Don’t hesitate to call us or book an appointment:
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