Patient FAQs
Have questions before your appointment? Find answers about hearing tests, referrals, coverage, hearing aids, clinic visits, and what to expect when you come to Sonaris Ear Center.
Yes. A diagnostic hearing test provides comprehensive information about the type of hearing loss, where it is coming from and whether it is temporary or permanent. A careful history of your hearing health is also taken into account when making a diagnosis. Only from thorough and accurate testing are we able to identify issues and concerns that may warrant medical referral. Also, if hearing aids are indicated, the information obtained from a diagnostic hearing test is essential to make sure that the hearing aids are properly and accurately adjusted to your hearing.
All of this takes time and there are costs involved. We prefer to keep our charges transparent and we do not hide our assessment costs by inflating our hearing aid prices.
Yes. If you are a person with disabilities residing in BC and covered under the Ministry of Development and Social Innovation (MSDSI) program, you may qualify for financial assistance. Sonaris’ audiologists will help determine if you or a family member is eligible for financial assistance towards hearing aids.
Sonaris Ear Center also sees clients whose hearing care may be funded or supported through third party programs, including third party coverage and programs:
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- RCMP
- Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)
- Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
- Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)
- WorkSafeBC
- First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
- Ministry programs
- ICBC
- WorkBC (for working-age adults facing barriers to employment)
Coverage and eligibility vary by program, so it’s a good idea to contact us before your appointment. We can let you know what information may be needed and help you understand the next steps.
Sonaris is an independently owned, private practice that offers quality hearing health, balance function, and rehab services to British Columbians of all ages.
As an independent practice, we are not affiliated with large name companies and as such, we provide unbiased services and products.
An audiologist is a professional who provides primary hearing health care. Audiologists specialize in the prevention of hearing loss and in the identification, assessment, diagnosis, management, and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. Audiologists are university trained and following completion of an undergraduate program, they undertake a further minimum 2 years of graduate studies in Audiology to graduate with either a master’s degree or doctoral degree.
Audiologists are highly skilled in assessing hearing-related communication disorders and are knowledgeable with respect to the physics of sound, anatomy and physiology of the hearing and speech mechanisms. Audiologists can also prescribe and dispense hearing aids if licensed to do so.
A Hearing Instrument Practitioner’s scope of practice is generally limited to conducting hearing tests and dispensing hearing aids. They cannot, however, provide diagnostic services. As a minimum, completion of 2 years of post-secondary education is required. Training in the field of hearing instrument dispensing can vary and there is no standardized formal education program.
The regulating body for both professions is the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC) which defines the scope of practice for Audiologists and Hearing Instrument Practitioners.
As a consumer, you choose whom you wish to see for your hearing needs. The cost of services is not determined by the profession you choose to receive services from.
In keeping with Sonaris’ commitment to excellence in patient care, our services are provided exclusively by registered Audiologists.
At Sonaris, we provide a 30-day money back or exchange on the purchase of any hearing devices.
Referred to Sonaris Hearing Center Surrey by ENT Doctor Mori. An excellent experience with audiologist Fred Manta. With Fred’s expertise, selected hearing aids and some specialised equipment, I am able to hear much of what I lost over the years through industrial noise exposure. Anticipating multiple appointments, I was hesitant to make the drive as there were hearing centres much closer to home. It quickly became evident however that it would be worth every mile. Office manager Ravjir and office admin., Hanna were very thoughtful in finding appointments that were off peak traffic times and fitting me in when there was a snag. All in all my wife Linda and I appreciate Sonaris very much and we’ll happily drive the distance to continue with them as my ongoing hearing management requires. Thank you Fred, Ravjir and Hanna.
I simply cannot say enough about Fred Matta . He is clearly one of the most personable, professional and knowledgeable specialists that I have ever met in the medical field. He spent an exceptional amount of time assisting me to make the best decision regarding my hearing aids. He also allowed lots of trial time for me to demo two different models. There was never any pressure to make the final purchase. I would also like to thank his receptionist/assistant, Jas. She completes the picture that allows for a friendly, comfortable office visit.
Do not hesitate to contact Sonaris as you will be most impressed!!
I have been seeing Fred for many years now and he has just fitted me with my second set of hearing aids . . . always extremely professional . . . polite . . . courteous . . . knowledgeable . . . and he goes out of his way to check all details and trials to ensure everything is as good as it can be and the customer 100% satisfied . . . a true professional . . . and highly recommended!!!
Undoubtedly one of the most professional, empathetic and best medical partners a patient/parent can ask for. Fred Matta goes beyond his professional duties to research, communicate and guide.We cannot thank Fred enough for the care, guidance and friendship over the years.
Director of Audiology