Audika FAQ page

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I’m contacted?
Our partner clinics aim to contact you within 24 hours to schedule a hearing check.

What are the signs of hearing loss?
The human ear is one of our most advanced and perceptive sensory organs. Just as other parts of
our bodies show the effects of wear and tear as we age, so do our hearing
systems. Fortunately there is help available when signs of hearing loss start to appear.
The signs of hearing loss can be vague and develop slowly, or they can be obvious and
begin suddenly. Either way, it becomes harder to hear certain sounds or syllables. You can hear
people are talking but can’t make out what they are saying, and frequently ask people to repeat
themselves. It’s also difficult to hear in noisy situations like conferences, restaurants or crowded
meeting rooms. This can result in frustration, withdrawal from social activities, isolation and
loneliness. So if you recognise any of these signs, we highly recommend that you get a hearing test.
We are ready to help you.

Are hearing aids subsidised?
Government subsidies exist for pensioners and veterans wanting to get their hearing tested or be
fitted with hearing aids in Australia.
Eligible people can attain a complete range of hearing services designed to meet individual needs,
these include;
• A hearing assessment by a qualified hearing services practitioner
• If the assessment indicates that a hearing aid will help, your clinician will assist you in
selecting an appropriate model from a range of quality devices.
If you are eligible, we will help you with the application process, you can also find more information
on the Hearing Services Program on the Government’s Department of Health Website here.
Once your application has been processed, if eligible you’ll be issued a services voucher for
subsidised services and devices where appropriate.

I have a health fund, am I covered for hearing aids?
Private health fund rebates are available to assist with the cost of buying hearing aids in Australia.
However, it is best that you check with your health insurance provider, as there are no guarantees
that costs (if any) will be covered. This is largely dependent on the type of cover, and the health
fund’s specific inclusions, extras and exclusions.
The following is for general information purposes only and should not be taken as guaranteed,
expert advice:
• The rebate you claim will depend on your health fund and type of cover you have;
• Many health funds DO list hearing aids under additional benefits coverage;
• You may* be able to claim a portion towards the cost of hearing aids from Australian health
funds; and
• In most cases, you don’t need a doctor’s referral get your hearing tested, however some
private health funds may ask for a referral letter before they pay benefits for audiology.
(*) As each health insurance policy is different, we recommend that you contact your health
insurance provider directly to determine your eligibility for rebates.

What is Tinnitus, and what are the causes?
According to the Better Health Channel, approximately 17-20% of the Australian population has
some form of Tinnitus.
Some of the most common causes are:
• Exposure to loud sounds
• Stress or trauma
• Degeneration of the hair cells in the cochlear
• Ear problems, such as otosclerosis (fixation of the tiny bones in middle ear)
• Meniere’s disease
• Some prescription and non-prescription drugs
Exposure to loud noises such as machinery, lawnmowers and loud music remain the most common,
preventable causes.

How can you treat Tinnitus?
If you hear noises in your ear when it is quiet, you may suffer from tinnitus. Often resulting in a
buzzing, whistling, roaring or humming noise and is caused by a problem with the hearing system.
It is not curable but can be easily managed with some changes to your way of living like avoiding
loud noises, lifestyle and diet changes, medication and good quality well fitted hearing aids that
helps manage the strain you may feel when listening to others.
*Eligibility for and exact hearing device model selected for the trial is dependent on the hearing and
lifestyle needs determined at the discretion of our qualified clinicians and is subject to terms. Only
available to available to adults aged 26 or above.
For information regarding government subsidies on Hearing Aids, please visit the HSP program
page.

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