About hearing aids

Hearing aids:

Your most frequently asked questions - answered


Q. Should I see my doctor about my hearing?
A. Always see your GP first. You may then be referred to the NHS, but if waiting times are long you may decide to visit your local private hearing care centre.
Q. Can my hearing loss be cured?
A. A high percentage of the population suffer hearing loss to some degree as they get older, but there may be other reasons for hearing difficulties. That is why a visit to your GP is recommended, and consultation with a fully qualified hearing aid audiologist is advisable so that a proper assessment can be carried out. This assessment (the hearing test) can be conducted by the NHS or privately.
Q. Do I have to pay for the test if I go private?
A. Absoluteley not. If there are long NHS waiting lists in your area you can contact your local hearing care centre where a free hearing assessment can be arranged at no charge and with no obligation.
Q. How long does the test take?
A. Allow an hour so that your individual needs can be discussed after which the test will measure and define the degree of hearing loss you may suffer.
Q. Do you need someone with you on the test?
A. No - but it does help clarify the nature of your hearing loss if you bring a friend or partner who also understands your hearing problems
Q. If I need a hearing aid, how long does it take to be fitted?
A. Hearing aids on the NHS can take several weeks or even months to arrange. Usually, private earing centres take just a few weeks. Some hearing aids can even be fitted on the day.
Q. Is a hearing aid difficult to use?
A. Digital hearing aids today are fully automatic - so do not need constant adjustment. The hearing aid audiologist will set it all up. Even the private sector offers ongong service to ensure adjustments over time can be carried out free of charge.
Q. Is the hearing aid guaranteed?
A. The NHS have an "approved list" of hearing aids supplied by reputable manufacturers. These are also available from most leading private practices, along with many other makes and models. Those from recognised brands such as Widex, Oticon and GN Resound - plus many others - carry a 2 year warranty against mechanical failure.
Q. What if I need help after I have been fitted?
A. Look for suppliers who provide a good after sales service, rather than ones who merely supply the best price. You can obtain the best help, advice and choice - some of the best prices - quality brands and free service for life, if you choose wisely. Price is not always the only thing to consider.
Q. How much do hearing aids cost if I go private?
A. Digital hearing aids can start from as little as £199 for a basic model - but much more for a top-of-the-range system.
Q. What if I cannot afford to buy outright?
A. Most good hearing aid dispensers will have plans to enable you to spread the payments - even leasing arrangements with added extras built in.
Q. Where do I start looking for a good private dispenser?
A. The telephone book, or a recommendation from a friend are a good start. And you can call Freephone 0800 612 7992 for a centre near you - or to arrange a home visit.
Q. How much do home visits cost?
A. Absolutely nothing. Hearing aid audiologists are available for home visits to conduct your free hearing assessment - totally free of charge.
Q. How do I know which hearing aid to choose?
A. You don't - but a hearing aid audiologist will. There are so many makes and model on the market - and different types and ways to wear them. You will be advised on which ones will improve your own particular hearing impairment, then you can choose on which fitting and other cosmetic features suit you best. You need to feel comfortable in the way you look as well as hearing clearly again.
Q. What if I have a hearing assessment and find I do not need a hearing aid?
A. At least you will probably find out the cause, perhaps have your problem addressed by some other means, and usually come away with peace of mind and a solution. Around 9 out of 10 people with a hearing problem can have it corrected with a hearing aid. Either way, with the hearing assessment being completely free and immediate, there is a quick and easy way for having your hearing difficulties looked at. Call 0800 612 7992 for an early appointment at a time and place to suit you.

Hearing loss - it could well be correctable

Information supplied by Regional Hearing Services - call Freephone 0800 612 7992 quoting reference WB RH 01