SAC is pleased to share that the Bone Conduction Device (BCD) funding program within Ontario’s Infant Hearing Program (IHP) was officially launched on July 14, 2025. Bone conduction devices are used by infants and children with permanent conductive or mixed hearing loss. The launch of this program marks a major step forward in improving access to hearing technology for children and families across the province.

This BCD funding initiative is being led by the Oversight Agency of the Infant Hearing Program in Ontario, which is comprised of Newborn Screening Ontario and the National Centre for Audiology at Western University. This funding initiative comes after years of collective advocacy and collaboration among dedicated parent advocates, audiologists, physicians, and manufacturing partners.

Key highlights of the program include:

• Manufacturer partnerships: Funding contracts are now in place with all three major BCD manufacturers Cochlear Canada, Oticon Medical, and Med-El. These contracts will enable direct ordering and centralized invoicing.
• Policy-driven framework: New July 2025 IHP BCD Funding Policy outlines eligibility criteria, funding coverage, and device inclusions, ensuring transparency and consistency.
• Access and accountability: The application-based model ensures funding is confirmed before device ordering, reducing financial burden on families and enhancing oversight of public funds.

SAC applauds the continued support from the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and the Ontario Ministry of Health in making this possible. This new funding model ensures that children across Ontario who require bone conduction devices can access the technology they need without delay or financial hardship.

For more information on fitting bone conduction devices for infants and children, view our webcast here.