NHS or Private Hearing Aids?

NHS or Private Hearing aids – what you need to know

What’s the difference between NHS hearing aids and private hearing aids?

A worrying number of people – around 1 in 5 – who have NHS hearing aids don’t actually wear them. Frequent complaints seem to be that they can’t hear through them, or they’re uncomfortable.

This may be because NHS services that are under pressure may not have had the time to properly adjust hearing aids to a person’s specific hearing loss, or to explain them properly, so the person doesn’t know how to get the best from them.

Everyone seems to have an opinion about the topic of NHS hearing aids vs private hearing aids.

If you think you or a loved one would benefit from using hearing aids, it’s important you know all the facts so you can make an informed opinion.

Why is it important to wear hearing aids if you have a hearing loss?

Wearing hearing aids to correct mild hearing loss in mid life has been shown to reduce the risk of developing dementia in later life. If you want to enjoy a healthy, happy life and you have some level of hearing loss, wearing hearing aids is vital.

When it comes to hearing aids, where’s the best place to start?

First off, understand the level of hearing loss you have. Your hearing loss may be the result of another issue – such as an infection. Seeing your GP is the best place to start. If they have concerns about underlying issues they may refer you to a specialist Ear, Nose and Throat consultant for further investigation. If there’s no underlying cause, you can be referred to an NHS hearing service, or you can make an appointment with a private audiologist.

What are the key differences between private hearing aids and NHS hearing aids?

NHS hearing aids

• COST: The main reason why people opt for NHS hearing aids is cost. Hearing aids on the NHS are free – as are NHS hearing tests and any follow ups.
• WAIT TIMES: The NHS is under pressure so you’re likely to be waiting longer for an appointment than you would do if you wanted private hearing aids – up to six weeks or more.
• STANDARDISED/PERSONALISED CARE: For that same reason, care will take a standard approach so you may not receive the in-depth and personalised approach you need.
• HEARING AID MODELS: The hearing aids provided by the NHS will be less advanced and have more standard features than those you’ll have access to via a private audiologist. The NHS primarily offers behind-the-ear styles that are bigger than other styles.
• AFTER CARE: This will be basic and may typically cover routine maintenance and repairs.

Private hearing aids

• COST: Independent (private) audiologists will charge you for a hearing test, for hearing aids and for follow-up care. However, this can be tailored to your needs and you can use various plans to help pay for your care, if you wish to. Costs vary from several hundred to several thousand pounds, and more.
• WAIT TIMES: Private providers should be able to see you within a few days or a week or two of you contacting them. They offer more flexibility and availability than the NHS.
• STANDARDISED/PERSONALISED CARE: A private audiologist will give you a thorough, unrushed appointment, taking time to understand your unique hearing loss and the scenarios where you struggle most to hear. Expect a tailored service that fits your needs.
• HEARING AID MODELS:
  • Private providers have access to a full range of hearing aid models – including the very latest styles and colours that are sleek and discreet and packed with helpful technology to enable you to hear at your best.
  • Many hearing aid models pair with the Bluetooth setting on a mobile phone so you can adjust them via an app. Your audiologist can even alter the programmes remotely if needed!
  • Hearing aid companies also offer state-of-the-art assistive technology that pairs with your hearing aids and mobile phone to enhance your hearing experience. For example, the Phonak Roger Pen is an external microphone that’s discreetly designed to look like a pen, for use in meetings or noisy settings where you need a bit more support to hear.
• AFTER CARE: Hearing aids take a while to get used to as your hearing adjusts. That’s why private audiologists will provide comprehensive and tailored after care. At The Hearing Clinic we see you at set stages during your first year of wearing hearing aids, fine tuning your hearing aids and their programmes so you get the most from them. We’re always here to support you with maintenance and any adjustments you need.

 

Still need help deciding between private hearing aids and NHS hearing aids?

Word of mouth and great reviews are one of the best ways to find the best solution for you. Take a look at the reviews left by patients of The Hearing Clinic. We’re here to help and happy to answer your questions.