Funding Options

 

ACC

Pays proportionally for Audiological costs (testing and hearing aids) based on percentage hearing loss relating to accident or noise exposure in the work place.

 

MAKING AN ACC CLAIM—PATIENT INFORMATION:

Step 1: ACC claim is initiated by your General Practitioner and lodged with ACC

Step 2: ACC directs you to visit an audiologist for a full diagnostic hearing test

This audiologist must be a full member of the New Zealand Audiological Society and it is your choice where you go

Step 3: MNZAS audiologist performs a full diagnostic hearing test

Step 4: The test shows 6% or more total hearing loss

If you have less than 6% total loss the claim does not progress further as you have not met the ACC threshold for hearing loss. If your claim is not successful your Dilworth Hearing audiologist will discuss other funding options that may be available.

Step 5: You are referred to an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist for an assessment

Step 6: ACC receives the ENT report and all necessary information to make a decision about coverage

Step 7: You receive a Cover Approval Letter if your claim is successful

This letter provides the purchase order number and details the funding contribution that ACC and/or Ministry of Health will provide.

Step 8: You visit your MNZAS audiologist to discuss hearing aid options and to commence your hearing aid trial. 

You are free to go to any MNZAS audiologist of your choice and you can change their selection at any time.

 It should be noted that at times legislation can change, so do ask your audiologist or call ACC on 0800 101 996 if you require further information.

 

MINISTRY OF HEALTH FUNDING (ACCESSABLE AND ENABLE NZ)

The patient pays for the initial hearing assessment and for a portion of the hearing aid cost.  If the hearing loss
requires  hearing aids or assistive devices, applications for funding can be made for individuals for the following reasons:

¨ Require hearing aids for full time employment, education and training

¨ Responsible for the care of a dependent

¨ Personal safety is compromised or have multiple disabilities.

 

WAR PENSIONS

Pays for hearing aids up to $900 (including GST) per aid.  In special circumstances the Audiologist can apply for additional funding for higher technology hearing aids, however in most cases the patient is responsible for the financial difference.

 

GOVERNMENT SUBSIDY

For all those who do not qualify for other funding, a subsidy of $511.11 per aid is provided towards the cost of each hearing aid. This funding is available for the first time purchase of hearing aids or every six years for replacement of hearing aids.

 

CHILDREN

All school age children are eligible for full funding of aids through the Child Hearing Aid Fund (CHAF).  Once the child leaves school this eligibility finishes.  If a young person continues a tertiary education, the Special Aid Fund will cover them till the age of 21.  As Dilworth Hearing is a private clinic, a there are levels of fitting fees of depending on the age of the child, $750 for under 3 1/2 and over this age $550.