Who provides the hearing aid services at Addenbrooke's? |
The Audiology Department has three members of staff who are registered hearing aid dispensers. All hearing aid dispensers must comply by the rules laid down by the Hearing Aid Councils Code of Practice.
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Why do some people choose to pay for a private hearing aid? |
Our private hearing aid service can provide a faster service of a wider range of hearing aids including the most modern technology.
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Why does Addenbrooke's Audiology provide private hearing aid services as well as aids free of charge 'on the NHS'? |
Some people who decide to use private hearing aid services feel more comfortable if the services are provided by a familiar institution (such as Addenbrooke's) that will maintain services in the longer term.
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What does the private service entail? |
Patients are usually referred to this service via their general practitioner or an ear, nose and throat consultant. The first appointment you will have will be a hearing aid consultation. Appropriate hearing tests are performed to determine which type of hearing aid would be most suitable for your needs. If you decide to try a hearing aid, at this appointment an impression is taken of the ear from which the hearing aid or earmould is made. An appointment will then be sent to you when the hearing aid is ready.
The hearing aid is fitted on a trial basis for one month. We will make a follow up appointment for you to give us the opportunity to make any alterations to the hearing aid if necessary, or for you to return the aid if you decide it is not suitable and you do not wish to try an alternative.
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How much does a private hearing aid cost? |
A charge is made for the initial hearing aid consultation, which costs approximately £75. The cost of the actual hearing aid will vary depending on the type and specifications of the aid. Aids can cost from £800 for a conventional 'behind-or in-the-ear hearing aid' up to £2000 for a more technically advanced programmable or digital hearing aid.
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When do I have to decide to buy an aid? |
When you receive the hearing aid, you will need to sign a document that states that you have agreed to pay the quoted price if you are satisfied with the hearing aid. You will receive the actual bill within one month of issue. If, for any reason, you change your mind within 90 days of the date of issue, a full refund will be given.
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What do I do about repairs and getting batteries for private hearing aids? |
The hearing aid you are issued with has a guarantee, which covers cleaning, servicing and component failure. This does not cover loss or damage due to mishandling. After the guarantee expires, any attention to the hearing aid that is required by the manufacturer will be chargeable. The length of the guarantee depends on the type of hearing aid purchased. Batteries are available free of charge from the National Health Service.
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What further appointments are required? |
Any return visits to the department (with the exception of repairs and batteries) that are made six or more months after the issue of the hearing aid will be treated as a new referral.
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