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What does it mean when we say that hearing aids come in different technology levels?

All hearing aid manufacturers offer varying levels of technology. It is a standardized system of 3 to 5 technology levels at different price points. As you go up in technology levels, you are unlocking new features in the hearing aids that can help you in more difficult listening situations like church, restaurants and other social events.

Common features that are unlocked include:

Improved noise reduction
Improved directionality
Accelerometer integration
Wireless communication between hearing aids
AI and machine learning features
Improved microphone input levels
Wind Management

Come visit us at the Hearing Institute of Ontario to discuss which technology level is best suited to your hearing loss and lifestyle needs.

At the Hearing Institute of Ontario, your hearing health is important to us.
Contact our Mississauga, Oakville or Scarborough office for a FREE consultation with our knowledgeable and experienced audiologists, to discuss the best hearing solution for your hearing loss type.

Contact

For any questions or concerns call +1 888-664-2999 or fill out our form below:

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Our clinics are equipped with hospital grade testing equipment and real ear measurement systems to ensure the accurate diagnosis of your hearing loss and the most precise fitting of your hearing aids to suit your hearing needs. No other clinic in our area is better equipped to provide you with better hearing care.

In addition, some of our clinics offer our Hearing Experience showroom where you can drop in without an appointment to learn about the latest advances in hearing technology through interactive displays.

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Oakville

Upper Oakville Shopping Centre
1011 Upper Middle Rd E, Unit A6
Oakville, ON L6H 4L2
(Upper Middle at 8^th Line
Between Metro and Swiss Chalet)

MISSISSAUGA

Applewood Shopping Centre
1077 N Service Rd, Unit 27
Mississauga, ON L4Y 1A6
(Between Cawthra and Dixie – Beside Dollarama)

Scarborough (Victoria Park)

Victoria Terrace Shopping Centre
(Offices Building)
1448 Lawrence Ave East, Suite 203
North York, ON M4A 2V6
(NW corner of Victoria Park / Lawrence)

BUSINESS HOURS

Sunday: Closed
Monday: 8:30AM – 5:00PM
Tuesday: 8:30AM – 5:00PM
Wednesday: 8:30AM – 5:00PM
Thursday: 8:30AM – 5:00PM
Friday: 8:30AM – 1:30PM
Saturday: Closed

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Differences Between an Audiologist and a Hearing Instrument Dispenser

Audiologists and Hearing Instrument Specialists are both professionals trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat hearing and balance issues, but their roles, educational backgrounds, and scopes of practice differ. Here are some key differences:

Educational Background

Audiologist

Audiologists in Canada generally hold either a Master's degree or Doctorate (Au.D.) in Audiology.
These programs usually require a minimum of a Bachelor's degree for entry and consist of academic coursework and supervised clinical training.
Their education covers the entire scope of audiology, including acoustics, anatomy, physiology, psychoacoustics, and auditory rehabilitation among others. This prepares them for a comprehensive understanding of the auditory system.

Hearing Instrument Specialist

In Ontario, Hearing Instrument Specialists typically complete a two- or three-year diploma program accredited by the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities.
This program covers key topics such as hearing aid technology, basic anatomy, and physiology of the ear, as well as hands-on training, but it is not as comprehensive as the academic background of an Audiologist.

Scope of Practice

Audiologist

Can diagnose and treat a broad range of hearing and balance issues for all age groups.
Can administer a wide variety of hearing tests.
May work in a range of settings, including hospitals, private clinics, and educational settings, and may engage in research.
May also specialize in areas like pediatric audiology, geriatric audiology, vestibular issues, and auditory processing, among others.

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Primarily focuses on the fitting, adjustment, and maintenance of hearing aids.
Generally works with adults and may not be qualified to handle specialized cases, such as those involving children or complicated medical histories.
May work in retail settings, specialized hearing clinics, or alongside audiologists but generally do not work in hospital settings or perform research.

Regulatory Bodies

Audiologist

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Services Provided

Audiologist

Hearing Instrument Specialist

All client care at Hearing Institute of Ontario is provided by certified Audiologists who are registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists of Ontario

FREE HEARING TEST AND CONSULTATION

Book your no cost, no obligation hearing test today. Learn if you have a hearing loss and get expert advice from our certified audiologist about how to improve your hearing.

Call us today at 1-888-664-2999 or use the green button below to schedule your free hearing test and get started on your journey to better hearing.

*See our hearing test policies here

Free Hearing Aid

Buy one hearing aid and get the second for free.

This offer applies to our most popular hearing aid models from Signia, Phonak and Widex. Call 1‑888‑664‑2999 today to book your no‑cost, no‑obligation consultation!

Conditions: Offer expires May 31, 2023 and applies to the purchase of any Premium technology hearing aids from Signia, Widex and Phonak. Private sales only. Standard dispensing fee applies to both hearing aids.