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Hearing aids offer many benefits to the user, including improved communication, better quality of life, and increased safety. However, the high cost of hearing aids and poor insurance coverage prevents many people from accessing these life-changing devices. Through the Gift of Hearing program, OSCIL is bringing hearing within reach for more Rhode Islanders!
Hearing Aids Cost $600 Per Ear*
Who is eligible for the Gift of Hearing?
To participate in the Gift of Hearing, you must:
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be a Rhode Island resident
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be self-directed (able to make your own choices)
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meet financial eligibility criteria
*People with the greatest financial need can receive help from OSCIL to pay some or all of the cost of their hearing aids.
Can I pay by payment plan?
No, you will need to pay the full amount due at your final appointment with the Speech & Hearing Center at URI.
Are the hearing aids warrantied?
The hearing aids provided by the Gift of Hearing come with a limited warranty.
How Does the Gift of Hearing Program Work?
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Make an appointment with your doctor to get your ears checked.
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Get a copy of the report. Your hearing test must be less than one year old.
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Meet with OSCIL and fill out an application and financial need form.
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Make sure you have financial documents like your social security award letter and bank statements.
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Have your ENT or primary care doctor fill out the pre-evaluation form. Ask them to make you an extra copy.
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Send the copy of your pre-evaluation form to OSCIL.
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Keep the original form and your hearing test. You will need it later.
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Once we review your forms and approve your application, we will send a packet with a "Letter of Introduction".
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Call the URI Speech & Hearing Center at 401-874-5969. Tell them that you have received a "Letter of Introduction" for the Gift of Hearing and make an appointment.
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Make sure you take your paperwork to your appointment at URI:
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Letter of Introduction
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Your completed Pre-Evaluation Form
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Your hearing test report
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At URI, a student and a supervising audiologist will do a test if needed. You will be fitted with an ear mold and your hearing aid(s) will be ordered.
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URI will call when your hearing aid(s) arrive. You will make an appointment to return to the Hearing Center for your final fitting.
Get the Gift of Hearing!
Contact the Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) for more information about the Gift of Hearing program. You can also complete our contact form.
Warwick, RI 02889
Pawtucket, RI 02860