Ok—you’ve started to notice some problems with your hearing. Where do you turn? Who do you start with? Maybe your family doctor? An audiologist? ENT? There are so many people who might qualify as hearing loss healthcare providers; which one do you choose?

The problem with this uncertainty is its proclivity to delay care. We know that early intervention can make such a difference in treatment outcomes when it comes to hearing loss, so it’s important that we know where to turn and when.

Audiology First works closely with a comprehensive network of hearing loss healthcare providers (it’s who we are!). We have close relationships with physicians, ENTs, and other healthcare professionals in and around the Lethbridge area to always offer the highest level of support to our patients. 

Let’s explore together where you need to turn and when, and how Audiology First will always be there to support you in your hearing health journey!

When to Start with Your Family Physician

For many people, their family doctor is the first point of contact for any health changes, including their hearing. While the role of experts in hearing testing and calibration is reserved for audiologists, there are several scenarios where seeing a physician first makes sense.

Medical Emergencies

Severe ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear can all be indications of a serious medical condition (such as an infection or inner ear damage) that requires immediate medical attention. Sudden hearing loss, severe pain, or severe dizziness should prompt an immediate visit to the emergency room. Do not wait to see your family physician or an ENT. The emergency team will contact a specialist for you, if needed. 

Underlying Conditions

Hearing health can often be an indicator of a person’s broader health situation. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and side effects of medication can all contribute to hearing problems; a physician can help connect those dots. Physicians will almost immediately refer to audiology for any concerns related to hearing, tinnitus, or balance.

Insurance Requirements

Some insurance plans or government programs require a physician’s referral or medical documentation to cover hearing tests or devices. 

Basic Screening

Family doctors can review a person’s medical history, conduct basic screening, and be a safe space for people who are hesitant about bringing up new health issues they’re experiencing. 

Audiology First maintains current and is always looking to build new partnerships with local family physicians in Lethbridge. Our goal is to always ensure patients get timely referrals and coordinated care.

The Audiologist’s Role in Hearing Healthcare

Audiologists are specialized healthcare providers dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. With training and tools that go far beyond basic screenings, they’re the hearing loss healthcare provider most fully-equipped to deal with a wide range of hearing issues and conditions.


Audiologists never require a referral to work with patients. This makes them an accessible first step for any ear or hearing concerns (with the exception of medical emergencies). 

Comprehensive Evaluation

Audiologists are trained to perform in-depth assessments, including pure-tone audiometry, speech testing, and middle ear evaluations. Hearing tests at Audiology First are free and just as comprehensive as those offered by Alberta Health Services (for which wait times can often be several months).

Specialized Testing

A good audiology clinic will be able to offer more specialized services, such as tinnitus evaluations, balance assessments, and even genetic consultations for hereditary hearing loss. 

Treatment Planning

Customized planning that includes hearing aid selection, custom fittings, programming  and long-term follow-up care are all customary offerings here at Audiology First.

Advanced Technology

3D ear scanning and video otoscopy give audiologists a far better picture of the patient’s hearing health. This offers a more precise diagnosis and higher level of comfort during fittings.

Audiology First is positioned as the most prominent and capable audiology clinic in Southern Alberta. Our unmatched diagnostic abilities and treatment options make us Lethbridge’s # 1 hearing expert, ready to serve you and cater to your unique hearing profile. 

ENT Specialists: When Medical Intervention is Needed

Otolaryngologists (ENTs) are medical doctors who specialize in conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. They're hearing loss healthcare providers that have a special role and necessity in this network of care.

Surgical Candidates

ENTs are who we turn to in the industry when surgery is required; chronic infections, perforated eardrums, or implanted hearing solutions are all within their scope of practice.

Complex Medical Cases

ENTs are really the specialists when it comes to complex conditions, hearing profiles and situations. They handle acoustic neuromas, structural abnormalities, and chronic sinus issues that affect someone’s hearing.

Sudden Hearing Loss

Sudden hearing loss is a major concern, one that requires urgent evaluation and treatment by an ENT specialist. 

Audiology First works closely with ENTs to help patients get the medical and surgical care that they need. We always strive for comprehensive, coordinated support, and our ENT partners are an important part of that.

Other Healthcare Team Members

Some other team members you’ll find under the umbrella of hearing loss healthcare providers include the following:

• Hearing aid practitioners
• Speech-language pathologists (SLPs)
• Mental health professionals
• Occupational health specialists
• Physiotherapists

Making the Right Choice: Decision Framework

Let’s get down to it. With all this context, how do we make the right choice? Determining where to start depends on two things: symptoms and urgency.

Red Flags: See a Physician or ENT Immediately

• Sudden hearing loss
• Severe pain
• Severe dizziness
• Discharge from the ear

Concerning Symptoms: Book With an Audiologist

• Gradual hearing loss
• Tinnitus
• Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments

Cautionary Checking: See Your Family Doctor

• Changes in your hearing health that become noticeable
• Need for a referral for insurance coverage
• Persistent ear fullness or recurring infections

Understanding the differences in providers can help save time, and also make a positive difference in the treatment outcomes for a patient.

Ready to take the next step?

Being proactive about your hearing is an important part of a well-rounded healthcare plan. Download our free guide to navigating hearing healthcare in Lethbridge, and contact Audiology First to book your comprehensive hearing evaluation today!