Hearing Awareness Project
- Hearing Aid Manufacturers
- All manufacturers provide warranty with the purchase of the hearing aid, and the majority of companies provide one time loss/damage replacement (for any reason), usually for one year or for the length of the repair warranty. Most companies charge a replacement deductible. Also, many dispensers charge a re-dispensing fee to cover the cost of re-programming, fitting etc. When purchasing a new hearing aid ask about loss/damage coverage and whether extended coverage is available through the manufacturer. After this coverage has expired, or has been used, an alternate insurance is recommended.
- Household Insurance
- Check with the company providing your home/household insurance. Some companies will cover the cost of loss due to fire, theft etc. However keep in mind that the deductible for a claim may be $500 or more. Ask about a "rider" for the hearing aids which provides a lower deductible on that item for a small annual fee. Also check what the penalties are for making a claim. Some companies may increase your rates after a claim.
- Employer Health Insurance
- Check with your Employer's Health Insurance. They may cover the cost of loss, repairs and purchasing of accessories. You may be limited in the amount you can claim within a period of time as they do with glasses and other prosthetics.
- Social Services
- If you are receiving Social Services or you are currently part of a government program providing you with employment or disability related services, ask your program representative if they can cover the cost of loss, repairs and purchase of accessories.
- ESCO (Ear Service Corporation of Canada)
- ESCO offers comprehensive coverage of hearing aids and cochlear implants. They can be an alternative to some manufacturer's Extended Warranties, which tend to be expensive. They
can be reached at:
ESCO, 1710 Chateauguay St., Huntington, Qc, J0S 1H0
Tel: 1-866-662-02-06, Fax (450) 264-3081, www.canada.earserv.com
E-mail: information@earserv.com - Insurance Brokers
- Brokers offer a choice of coverage and prices from various companies and will do all the searching and negotiating for you. They will recommend a company that offers the best policy to meet your needs and pocketbook.
- Credit Card Warranty Extensions
- Some companies will double the manufacturer's original warranty on most items purchased with the card. Ask your bank which cards can help you the most.
Copyright © 2009 the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA)
Direct commercial exploitation is not permitted. No warranty of accuracy is given concerning the contents of the information contained in this publication. To the extent permitted by law, no liability (including liability to any person by reason of negligence) will be accepted by CHHA its subsidiaries or employees for any direct, or indirect loss or damage caused by omissions from or inaccuracies in this document. CHHA reserves the right to change details in this publication without notice.