When it comes to workplace safety, we often think about physical injuries, mental health, and ergonomic issues. One crucial aspect that tends to be overlooked is hearing care.
For workers who are exposed to loud environments or who have experienced noise-induced hearing loss due to their workplace, the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) can provide benefits. Understanding how to utilize these benefits can make a significant difference in the quality of life for impacted workers.
Let’s explore the hearing care benefits offered by WSIB and how our team at Dion Hearing Centre can help you take advantage of them.
What Is WSIB?
The Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) is an Ontario-based organization dedicated to promoting workplace safety. It provides insurance benefits to workers who experience work-related injuries or illnesses. WSIB’s comprehensive benefits include medical care, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services.
Who Is Eligible for WSIB Hearing Care Benefits?
To be eligible for WSIB hearing care benefits, an individual must:
Have a work-related hearing loss:
This could be due to prolonged exposure to loud noises or a specific incident that resulted in hearing damage.
Report the injury promptly:
It's essential to report the hearing loss as soon as possible to ensure timely access to hearing care benefits.
Undergo a hearing assessment:
A certified hearing care professional must assess the worker’s hearing loss to confirm that the cause is work related.
What Do WSIB Hearing Care Benefits Cover?
WSIB hearing care benefits provide coverage for a range of services to address hearing loss. These benefits may include:
Hearing Assessments and Tests:
WSIB covers the costs associated with initial and ongoing hearing assessments. Comprehensive hearing assessments are crucial for understanding the degree of your hearing loss and developing an appropriate treatment plan.
Hearing Aids:
For workers diagnosed with work-related hearing loss, WSIB provides coverage for approved hearing aid models. This may include the cost of the devices themselves, fittings, and necessary adjustments. Regular maintenance and hearing aid repairs are also covered.
Assistive Listening Devices:
WSIB may also cover other assistive listening devices, such as telephone amplifiers or alerting systems.
Counselling and Support Services:
Dealing with hearing loss can be emotionally challenging. WSIB offers access to counselling and support services to help workers adapt to their new circumstances.
How to Apply for WSIB Hearing Care Benefits
The steps to file a claim for WSIB coverage are simple:
Get a professional hearing assessment:
Get a professional hearing assessment: Visit your hearing care professional to have your hearing assessed and obtain a medical report documenting your condition.
Complete the necessary forms:
Fill out the required forms provided by WSIB. These forms typically include information about your employment, the nature of your hearing loss, and your hearing assessment results.
Submit your application:
Submit your application and all supporting documents to WSIB for review. WSIB will evaluate your information and determine your eligibility for benefits.
How Dion Hearing Can Help
WSIB’s coverage may seem confusing at first, but with the right guidance, the process becomes clear and straightforward.
If you’re experiencing work-related hearing loss, our team is ready to help you obtain WSIB coverage and begin your journey to better hearing.
We believe that hearing care should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Support from WSIB and other organizations can make a huge difference in the lives of those with hearing loss challenges who need extra help.
If you or a loved one could benefit from coverage from WSIB for hearing care, you can check your benefits by calling our office at (226) 674-1127. Or request a callback and we will be in touch with you soon.
