Government Hearing Services Program

Most New Zealanders will qualify for either the government’s subsidy or another funding assistance option. At Specsavers Audiology, we have fully qualified audiologists in every store who are ready to help you apply for the funding which best suits your circumstances.

ACC funding

At Specsavers Audiology, we’re here to help you through every step of the ACC application process.

The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides funding for hearing aids and hearing loss treatment to eligible New Zealanders. The ACC offers different levels of funding depending on the cause and extent of your hearing loss. To qualify for this funding, your hearing loss must be a result of an accident, or exposure to harmful noise in a work environment.

There are different levels of ACC funding, ranging from approximately $3000 to nearly $5000. If your claim is successful, ACC will let you know exactly how much funding you’ve been approved for.

Regardless of your level of ACC funding, we have product options available that will be fully funded. You can choose to top up funding to purchase a higher level of technology. If you would like more information, speak with your Specsavers Audiology Professional. Please note: only Specsavers Advance hearing aids are available with ACC funding.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

If you already have your ACC hearing aid approval letter, book a 30‑minute Hearing Aid Device Discussion. Otherwise, if you’re just starting the process, here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. 1.

   Book a free 15‑minute hearing check with Specsavers Audiology.
   Book a free 15‑minute hearing check at Specsavers. After your hearing check, we’ll take your results, help you complete the ACC claim form and lodge on your behalf.

2. 2.

   Have a hearing assessment.
   ACC requires you to undergo a full hearing assessment and to complete a questionnaire regarding workplace history which we’ll arrange for you in store. We can finalise and submit the information needed by ACC for them to process your application.

3. 3.

   Claim process.
   ACC will assess your claim documentation and determine if you require further assessment by an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist to determine the extent of injury‑related hearing loss and arrange an appointment with them at no cost. Note, this appointment is usually conducted over the phone.

4. 4.

   Claim outcome.
   ACC will inform you of your claim outcome by mail. If your claim is approved, you will be provided with how much funding you qualify for.

5. 5.

   Book a Hearing Aid Discussion appointment.
   Your audiologist will not receive your claim outcome, so book a hearing aid discussion appointment once you receive your claim outcome. Your audiologist will work with you to find a solution that best suits your hearing needs. Once you’ve been fitted with hearing aids, you’ll get a 90‑day trial period to make sure you’re happy with them.

Insurance

Many home and contents insurance policies cover hearing aids that are lost, stolen or damaged. Check with your insurer for more information. And, if your hearing aids are covered by your insurer, remember to add them to your policy. We can’t help with making your claim, but we can help with finding the right hearing solution for you, speak to your audiology professional in store for more information.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. 1.

   Book a free 15‑minute hearing check with Specsavers Audiology.

2. 2.

   Request a cash payout from your insurance company.
   By requesting a cash payout, you are able to go to the provider of your choice.

3. 3.

   Be fitted with hearing aids.
   Book in with your Specsavers audiology professional and they will find you a hearing aid solution that best suits your needs, lifestyle and budget.