FAQ
and AnswersWhat are the prices of your hearing aids?
What is the cost of a tinnitus appointment?
A tinnitus appointment at Hearlix is a comprehensive 90-minute session, specifically designed to address your tinnitus concerns. This appointment is priced at $299.72, ensuring that you receive the dedicated time and expert care you need to manage and alleviate tinnitus effectively.
How much is a children’s hearing test?
At Hearlix we can provide a comprehensive 30-minute evaluation of hearing for children aged three years and older, priced at $198.12. The test will be adapted to your child’s age and ability, and will include a detailed written report.
How much is a hearing assessment?
Our comprehensive hearing assessment, which includes audiogram, middle ear evaluation, speech understanding assessment and physical examination under microscope, is designed to provide you with a thorough understanding of your auditory health. This test typically lasts for 90 minutes and is priced at $254, ensuring that you receive the time and attention needed for a comprehensive evaluation of your hearing.
Medicare or private health rebates may be available with a referral from a medical practitioner, so please check what options are available whilst making your appointment with Hearlix.
How much does a wax removal appointment cost?
Our wax removal appointment, a precise ear cleaning procedure completed under microscope lasts approximately 30 minutes and is priced at just $150.
How do you remove the wax, and is it safe?
The wax is removed via micro-suction under magnification from a microscope. It is 100% safe and does not hurt. It is far safer than using water and a syringe.
Do I need to use wax drops before my appointment?
It’s best to not do anything before your wax removal appointment.
What happens in a tinnitus appointment?
In a tinnitus appointment at Hearlix, we allocate a comprehensive 90 minutes to ensure you receive the utmost care and support. Here’s what you can expect during your tinnitus appointment:
1. In-Depth Discussion: A significant portion of the appointment is dedicated to open and meaningful conversation with you. We take the time to understand your unique tinnitus history leading up to your appointment. Your insights and experiences are invaluable in tailoring our approach to your needs.
2. Tinnitus Functional Index Questionnaire: To gain a deeper understanding of the impact of tinnitus on your life, you’ll be asked to complete a Tinnitus Functional Index questionnaire. This helps us assess the level of distress you’re experiencing and identify the specific areas of your life that are most affected by tinnitus.
3. Hearing Test (if needed): If you haven’t had a recent hearing test, we may conduct one during the appointment. This is done to rule out any underlying medical conditions or hearing pathologies that could be contributing to your tinnitus.
4. Extensive Education: A crucial aspect of the appointment involves in-depth education about tinnitus. We explain why tinnitus can be bothersome and explore the factors contributing to your unique experience. This knowledge is empowering and forms the foundation for effective management.
5. Practical Strategies: To provide immediate relief and support, we offer practical strategies tailored to your situation. These strategies can be implemented right away, helping you take the first steps towards managing and alleviating your tinnitus.
At Hearlix, our goal is to provide you with a holistic tinnitus appointment that not only addresses your immediate concerns but equips you with the knowledge and tools to effectively navigate your tinnitus journey.
Will I get anything back from my private health fund?
It’s likely that you will receive some reimbursement from your private health fund for our services. However, since the extent of coverage varies among different insurance providers and policies, we recommend reaching out to your insurance provider directly. They can provide you with specific details regarding the reimbursement you can expect based on your coverage. Feel free to contact us if you need any assistance or documentation to facilitate this process.
Are there any Medicare rebates available?
Yes, Medicare rebates are available for our services when you have a referral from any medical practitioner. The rebate amount varies depending on the type of appointment and services provided. Typically, rebates range between $14.40 and $49.80. We recommend consulting with your referring medical practitioner to ensure you meet the necessary criteria for these rebates and to understand the specific amount applicable to your appointment. Our team is also here to assist you in navigating this process if you have any questions.
Can you tell if my child has a blocked ear or fluid behind the ear drum?
Yes, we can certainly assess your child’s ear health and determine if they have a blocked ear or fluid behind the ear drum. This evaluation is especially crucial if your child has experienced recurring ear infections, even if symptoms have resolved.
Dr Annemarie is skilled in identifying and diagnosing these issues, and we will work closely with you to provide the necessary guidance and treatment options to ensure your child’s well-being. Your child’s ear health is our priority, and we’re here to help.
What is the youngest age you can test hearing in a child?
At Hearlix we utilise play audiometry to assess hearing in children, which involves the child wearing headphones and engaging in listening games. Typically, the youngest age at which we can reliably conduct a hearing test using this method is around 3 years of age.
At this age, children can actively participate in the process, ensuring that we obtain accurate and valuable hearing test results. We prioritise the comfort and cooperation of your child during the testing process to ensure the best possible outcome.
I think my partner/spouse/friend/parent has a hearing loss. Can I attend the appointment with them?
Absolutely, and in fact, we highly recommend it. Hearing loss doesn’t only impact the individual experiencing it but also affects everyone they communicate with, including loved ones. Your presence at the appointment can offer invaluable support and help us gain a more comprehensive understanding of their hearing needs.
Together, we can work towards finding the best solutions to improve their hearing and enhance your communication. We look forward to welcoming both of you for the appointment at Hearlix!
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need a referral for any audiology services at Hearlix.
However, having a referral can be beneficial, as it may enable you to claim certain items from Medicare, depending on the specific services provided during your appointment. If you have a letter from your GP or any previous audiology results, we recommend bringing them to your appointment. This information can be valuable in ensuring that we have a complete understanding of your hearing health and can provide you with the most tailored and effective care.
What happens at your first appointment?
At your initial appointment with us, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your hearing health and address your concerns effectively. Here’s what you can expect:
- Companion Encouragement: We encourage you to bring along a spouse, family member, or close friend who you frequently communicate with, as hearing loss affects not only you but also those around you.
- Informative Conversation: We engage in a conversation with you to understand how you currently manage your hearing loss and discuss any concerns or challenges you and your companion may be facing. We delve into your lifestyle, priorities, and aspirations for hearing improvement.
- Ear Examination: Our team will carefully inspect your ears and, if necessary, remove any earwax that may be impeding your ability to hear. This straightforward procedure can significantly improve your ability to follow conversations.
- Middle Ear Evaluation: We conduct a thorough examination of your middle ear to ensure your eardrum is functioning correctly and to check for any signs of fluid buildup, which can impact your hearing.
- Audiometric Testing: We measure your hearing abilities across various frequencies to determine the range of tones you can hear.
- Speech Testing: To assess how clearly you can understand speech, we conduct speech testing in both quiet and noisy environments, providing insights into your communication challenges.
Upon completing these assessments, we will provide you with a clear explanation of our findings and send a comprehensive report to your GP. Should hearing aids or other solutions be appropriate for you, and you are ready to discuss them, Dr Annemarie will take you through all the necessary information you need to know.
Our goal is to equip you with valuable insights and a customized plan to enhance your hearing health and overall quality of life.