What Is The Difference Between NHS and Private Hearing Aids?
National Health Service Hearing Aids
The medical and technical professions work together
as a team to provide on-going hearing aid
management for the individual patient.
The NHS hearing aid(s) is supplied free on a loan basis
with the earmoulds, batteries, repairs and advice free
as an on-going service. If your hearing changes you
will be re-assessed and appropriate aid(s) provided.
The patient is provided with a hearing aid(s)
appropriate for their hearing loss, and these are
carefully selected from a wide range of hearing aid
models to cater for their needs.
The NHS range of hearing aids all have a telecoil (T)
switch which can be used with a loop facility. Some of
the NHS hearing aid models come in a range of three
colors, beige, grey and brown. A comprehensive range
of earmoulds are available, including non-allergic
materials.
The range of NHS hearing aids is regularly reviewed to
provide new technology which includes hearing aids
with direct audio input, high frequency emphasis,
automatic gain control (AGC), MT combined switch etc.
All audiology staff adhere to standards set by the
British Society of Audiology and the British Association
of Audiology Technicians. A full range of rehabilitation
services are provided by the hearing therapist.
Professional advice is available from the audiology and
medical staff, for both patient and their family.
Hearing aids provided on the NHS are individually
selected on the basis of medical and technical need
and not necessarily what the patient would like
cosmetically.
Of the aid types available on the NHS, the most
commonly fitted are behind the ear models. Other
types available are; Spectacle aids, in the ear canal
and body worn aids, but these are only provided where
a medical/technical need has been identified.
Hearing Aid clinics and ENT departments have various
waiting times. Patients are normally seen at the
hearing aid centre, but home visits are available for the
housebound. When the aid requires repair, a
replacement one will be offered.
Private Hearing Aids
The hearing test and assessment is undertaken by the
registered hearing aid dispenser. The dispenser must
abide by the Hearing Aid Council Code of Practice.
Private hearing aids are expensive items to purchase
(about £500 plus) and the repair service may also be
costly, as are batteries.
The range of private hearing aids is comprehensive,
and many of the models now available are in-ear types
which are especially made for each individuals ear and
hearing specifications.
Some models are pre-programmed for a number of
environments in which the user will regularly find
themselves. Some are adjusted via a remote control
unit. Others adjust themselves automatically to the
most suitable setting, and may help to discriminate
between sound and background noise.
Free home visiting services are available to customers.
The standards and activities of the private dispenser
are regulated by the Hearing Aid Council, a statutory
body established by the Hearing Aid Act 1968.
Hearing tests and examinations are undertaken and
involve the customer in no obligation of any kind. They
are available free of charge even when conducted in
the home.
The dispenser will refer the customer to their doctor
concerning any condition of the ear(s) which requires
medical attention.
If a hearing aid is recommended, written particulars are
provided and even after a product has been ordered
there are a number of opportunities for the customer to
change their mind at no cost. Some companies offer a
30- day free trial service. Check before you purchase.
Some aid companies offer renting as an alternative to
purchasing the aid outright. Again, ask if this is
available. Supportive aftercare provided by registered
dispensers can be at the practice or in the comfort of
the user's home, at no extra charge. Check beforehand
if this is available. While the aid is away for repair or
servicing the user can often be without an aid.