Navigating the Assistive Devices Program (ADP): Your Guide to Your First Hearing Appointment
Are you or a loved one experiencing changes in your hearing and thinking about hearing aids? Taking the first step toward better hearing can be exciting, but also a little intimidating. The good news? Middlesex Hearing Centre is “hear” to help! In Ontario, the Ministry of Health helps make better hearing more accessible through their Assistive Devices Program (ADP), which can cover up to $500 per ear toward the cost of prescribed hearing aids.
If you are planning your initial hearing assessment and are interested in accessing this provincial funding, here is everything you need to know about ADP and exactly what you should bring along to your first visit.
What is ADP?
As mentioned above, ADP is a provincial program through the Ministry of Health designed to help Ontarians access customized medical equipment. For hearing health, the program will cover up to 75% of the cost of eligible hearing devices, up to a maximum of $500 per hearing aid. This grant is not based on income and can be accessed every 3-5 years depending on hearing needs. When you choose a registered ADP vendor (such as Middlesex Hearing Centre), your clinician and vendor will handle the paperwork and deduct the grant amount directly from your invoice – meaning there is no waiting around for reimbursement.
Your Checklist: What to Bring to Your First Appointment
1) Your Valid Ontario Health Card (OHIP): This is the most critical item. Although OHIP will not cover the cost of your hearing assessment, in order to qualify for ADP funding, you must be an Ontario resident with a valid health card number. Your provider will need this information to fill out the ADP application form in the event a hearing aid recommendation/purchase is pursued.
2) List of Medications & Medical History: Some medications and health conditions can directly impact your hearing. That’s why every appointment at Middlesex Hearing Centre starts with a brief case history. By understanding your overall health, unique communication struggles and lifestyle goals, we can build a complete picture of your unique hearing needs.
3) Past Audiogram Results: If you have had your hearing tested elsewhere in recent years and have a copy of your hearing test results, it can be helpful to bring those records along to your appointment. This provides the clinician with a baseline to see how your hearing may have changed over time.
4) Insurance or Health Benefit Documentation: Although ADP will cover up to $500 per hearing device, you are responsible for the remaining balance. If you have workplace benefits, a retirement benefit plan or coverage through programs such as ODSP or Veterans Affairs (VAC), bring those policy details with you. We may even be able to direct bill for you!
5) A list of Your Frequent Listening Environments: Before attending your appointment, think about your daily routine. Do you struggle to hear the TV? Has background noise at restaurants or coffee shops made conversation more difficult? How well can you hear your grandchildren’s voices? If you can think of 2 or 3 specific situations you wish you heard better in, this can help your provider determine what devices might suit your hearing needs best.
A Quick Tip from Kristen!
If possible, I always recommend inviting a spouse or trusted family member to come the appointment with you. Not only can they help make you feel more comfortable during the appointment, but they can also help you remember all the information shared during the appointment. A familiar voice can also help during the testing and fitting process!
Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?
Navigating hearing loss doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Pass this article along to a family member or friend who might be preparing for their first hearing assessment!
- Kristen
