Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the appointments?
Your initial hearing assessment appointment at Abi hearing is approximately 30 minutes for adult tests and for paediatric tests. Appointments for the assessment of balance disorders are longer and may be 1.5-2. hours. Hearing aid fitting takes 60minutes. All other consultations take 30-60minutes.
Is there parking?
Two-4 hours metered parking is available on Either side of our North Melbourne Clinic.
Williamstown we have onsite parking at the rear of our clinic.
Do I need a referral?
A formal referral is not required for a hearing assessment, but we prefer referral letters from general practitioners, specialists. Vestibular (balance) assessments do require a referral due to the specialised nature of the testing. There Medicare rebates are available for diagnostic hearing and balance assessment, when a current referral is provided. All other services do not require a referral.
How much will it cost?
All services incur private fees. Please see our fees page for further information.
Am I covered by my Private Insurance?
If you have private insurance with extras cover you may be covered for some of the costs associated with the purchase of hearing aids/devices if required. Please check with your insurance provider to determine the level of your cover.
How long do hearing aids last?
Most hearing aids last between 5 to 7 years, depending on the model, how well they’re maintained, and your listening environment.
What happens during a hearing aid fitting?
During a hearing aid fitting, your audiologist programs and adjusts your hearing aids to suit your unique hearing needs. The process includes checking the physical fit, verifying that the devices match your hearing prescription using real-ear measurements, and fine-tuning the sound for comfort and clarity. You’ll also learn how to use, clean, and care for your hearing aids. Follow-up visits ensure everything continues to perform optimally as you adapt to your new hearing experience.
What should I expect during a hearing test appointment?
Your audiologist will start by discussing your hearing concerns, medical history, and any symptoms like tinnitus or dizziness.
Next, they’ll examine your ears using otoscopy and perform a series of hearing and middle ear tests in a sound-treated room. These may include pure tone audiometry, speech testing, and tympanometry to check eardrum and middle ear function. After the tests, your audiologist will explain your results in plain language, show you your audiogram, and discuss the best options for your hearing and lifestyle. You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and understand your next steps.
What hearing aid brands do you work with?
Do you perform 2nd Opinions?
We encourage you to bring any previous hearing tests to your consultation visit so we can assess your hearing appropriately. Often we can utilise previous evaluations to make our best recommendations, and often additional tests may be required.
What is the cost of your hearing aids?
Hearing aid pricing varies greatly based on many factors, such as device style, the need for custom earmolds, and technology level. During your consultation, your audiologist will review your wants, needs, and values, perform a comprehensive audiologic evaluation, and give their best recommendations based on that information.
What is best practice audiology?
Best practice audiology means following the highest standards of clinical care to ensure every patient receives accurate testing, precise hearing aid fittings, and ongoing support.
Using evidence-based protocols for all hearing and balance assessments
Performing real-ear measurements (REM) and test-box verification to confirm hearing aid performance
Providing unbiased, independent advice , we’re not tied to any manufacturer
Offering clear explanations and personalised care at every step
Ensuring ongoing follow-up and support to help you adapt and succeed with your hearing solutions
Simply put, best practice audiology is about doing what’s right for the patient, every time, without shortcuts.
What do best practice audiology guidelines include?
Best practice audiology is guided by evidence-based standards developed through research and professional consensus. These guidelines ensure that every patient receives consistent, high-quality care. They focus on key areas:
Assessment & Goal Setting – Comprehensive hearing and communication assessments, followed by clear, individualised goals based on your needs and lifestyle.
Technical Aspects of Treatment – Using precise testing and verification methods such as real-ear measurements and test-box analysis to ensure hearing devices are performing correctly.
Orientation, Counselling & Follow-Up – Helping you understand your hearing results and devices, providing support and education, and ensuring you feel confident using your hearing aids in daily life.
Assessing Outcomes – Measuring your progress and satisfaction over time, and making adjustments to achieve the best possible hearing and communication results.