Download HLSIS05 Helping with your hearing loss

All about
Helping with your hearing loss
This information sheet explains how ACC can help if you need hearing aids and decide to go ahead
and buy them.
First, you’ll need to choose an audiologist
You’re welcome to see any audiologist, as long as they’re a member of the New Zealand
Audiological Society. You’ll find a list of audiologists at www.audiology.org.nz or you can call us on
0800 101 996 and we’ll send you a list of audiologists in your area.
When you’ve decided on an audiologist take an ACC6237 Quote for hearing aid form with you. We’ll
pay up to $115.00 (incl. GST) towards the cost of this appointment. If it’s going to cost more, the
audiologist will let you know beforehand.
You’re welcome to take a friend or family member with you when you visit the audiologist.
We’ll also pay for an additional consultation
It’s important to us that you get the aids that best suit you. That’s why we’ll also pay for an additional
consultation. This will give you the chance to compare options before you buy.
What to consider when selecting a hearing aid
A wide range of hearing aids is available with varying functions and features.
An audiologist will be able to provide advice on which hearing aids are most suitable for you. When
choosing your hearing aid you may want to consider:
 your lifestyle – the types of environment you need to communicate in and any specific situations
which cause you difficulties
 the style of hearing aid – would an aid worn over the ear suit you better than one that fits inside
your ear canal? If you wear glasses take them to your appointment with the audiologist
 the manufacturer’s warranty period
 the extra amount you may need to pay on top of the ACC and Ministry of Health contributions.
What to do if contributions don’t cover all the costs
Depending on the hearing aid you choose, there may be instances where the combined amount that
we and the Ministry of Health pay doesn’t cover the full cost of your hearing aids and associated
services (eg the fitting fee). When this happens you’ll need to pay the difference. Do talk to your
audiologist about this when considering the different hearing aid options.
Remember, we can pay for an additional consultation with a second audiologist so you can compare
what’s on offer and the price differences between hearing aids.
If you decide to go for a second consultation, please take the following with you:
 a copy of your hearing test results (audiogram)
 ACC6237 Quote for hearing aid.
What to do once you’ve made your choice
When you’re happy with the hearing aids you’ve chosen and you’re clear on any extra payment you
need to make, give the audiologist the hearing aid approval letter that we sent to you.
HLSIS05 - April 2014
This information may change and should only be used as a guide
Page 1 of 2
All about Helping with your hearing loss
Getting started with your new hearing aids
The audiologist will arrange for you to try out your new hearing aids for at least two weeks. After the
trial they’ll meet with you to talk about your experience.
If your new hearing aids aren’t comfortable or don’t meet your needs, you can ask to try a different
type or trial other models at a later date.
Getting the most out of your hearing aids
To get the most out of your hearing aid there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s important that you
follow the care instructions for your hearing aids as we may not be able to pay the cost of repairs if
they show signs of misuse or neglect.
As your hearing aids are valuable we recommend you insure them against loss or damage.
Batteries
We’ll pay for the batteries you need for your hearing aids. Your audiologist will order the first set of
batteries from our supplier and they’ll be sent directly to you. Information will be included on how to
ask for more when you need them.
Repairs
We also contribute towards:
 minor repairs and maintenance carried out by an audiologist – up to a maximum of $58.52 (incl.
GST), twice a year
 repairs or maintenance carried out by the manufacturer – up to a maximum of $234.09 (incl.
GST) per hearing aid, over a two year period, once the warranty period has expired.
Earmoulds
Once you’ve had your hearing aids for at least a year you can order replacement moulds. We
contribute up to $41.86 (incl. GST) per earmould and a service fee of $63.00 (incl. GST).
Warranty
Your new hearing aids will come with a manufacturer’s warranty to cover repairs and maintenance
during the warranty period. We can pay for repairs once the warranty period has expired.
If you need replacement hearing aids
We can help pay towards the cost of new hearing aids once every six years. If you need replacement
hearing aids visit your audiologist, who will reassess your total hearing loss and contact us on your
behalf.
We’re here to help
If you have any questions about the support we can provide, please give us a call on 0800 101 996
or contact the person you’ve been dealing with at ACC. You can read more about the support and
services we offer for injury-related hearing loss on our website www.acc.co.nz.
HLSIS05 - April 2014
This information may change and should only be used as a guide
Page 2 of 2