I've never had a hearing test.
Where do I start?
You don't need a referral, and you don't need to have "bad" hearing to book a test. If you've noticed any changes — or someone close to you has — a hearing assessment is a simple, painless place to start.
You're in the right place. Coming in for a hearing test doesn't mean you'll leave with hearing aids. Most first-time patients simply want to know where they stand — and that's exactly what a hearing assessment gives you.
What happens at a first hearing appointment?
A first appointment at Canberra Audiology is relaxed, thorough, and free of pressure. Here's exactly what happens:
We talk about your hearing concerns
Your audiologist will ask about the situations where you notice difficulty — at the dinner table, on the phone, in noisy places, or watching TV. This conversation is just as important as the test itself.
We look in your ears
Your audiologist examines your ear canals and eardrums using a small light. This takes about 30 seconds and is completely painless. Sometimes a build-up of ear wax is the entire cause of a hearing concern — and we can address that on the spot.
We test your hearing
You'll sit in a quiet room wearing headphones and press a button when you hear a tone. We also test your eardrum function and how well you understand speech. The tests are painless and straightforward — there are no wrong answers.
We explain your results clearly
Your audiologist will show you your audiogram — a chart of your hearing — and explain it in plain language. If your hearing is normal, we'll let you know and advise when to come back. If we identify a problem, we'll explain the type, degree, and all your options. No pressure to decide anything on the day.
How long does it take? A standard hearing assessment takes around 60 minutes. Bring your Medicare card — if you have a GP referral, you may be eligible for a rebate on the appointment fee.
You might be wondering...
Here are the questions we hear most often from people coming in for a first hearing appointment.
"My hearing probably isn't bad enough yet."
This is the most common reason people delay. The earlier hearing loss is identified, the better the outcomes — and the more options you have. Many patients with significant hearing loss are genuinely surprised by their results because the change happens gradually.
"I don't want to end up with hearing aids."
A hearing test doesn't commit you to anything. Many people who come in for a test don't need hearing aids. If they are recommended, there is no pressure to decide on the day — and we'll explain all your options clearly and honestly.
"Do I need a GP referral first?"
No — you can book directly with us at any time without a referral. However, a written referral from your GP allows you to claim a Medicare rebate on the appointment fee. It only takes a few minutes to request at your next GP visit.
"Will I need to do anything to prepare?"
No special preparation is needed. Just come as you are. If you wear hearing aids already (from another provider), bring them along. If a family member has concerns about your hearing, they're welcome to join you.
Before Your Appointment
These pages answer the most common questions people have before their first hearing test.