Hearing Aid Self-Referral Pathway
Pathway
A new Self-Referral pathway for Hearing Aids for patients over 55 years will be in place from 27 September 2021.
A patient that presents with hearing loss and meets the criteria should be signposted to a local audiology provider, alternatively the patient can also present directly to the Audiology provider without a GP consultation. The criteria is as follows:
Over 55 years
Age related hearing loss only, no underlying medical reason
If the patient has no ear wax or contra-indicators then they will be taken through a standard fitting pathway with assessment, fitting options and follow up. A letter should be sent to the GP practice confirming the treatment that the patient has received, confirming commencement of a three year pathway.
If the patient is found to have a clinical contra-indicator then the patient will be onward referred to a Community ENT Service provider (Southern Health or Omnes Healthcare Ltd) or secondary care if clinically indicated, for a specialist ENT assessment and the GP informed.
If the patient is found to have ear wax then two weeks of conservative management with over the counter remedies will be recommended, and then the patient should return to the Audiology provider.
Patient responsibilities:
To wear and care for the device as instructed; hearing aids take time to get used to with regular wear – the brain has to adjust to altered sound.
To address any concerns with the audiologist or branch manager (support is available from the Patient Experience Team at the CCG).
Patients should normally remain with their chosen provider for a minimum of 3 years.
Thank you for your support with this.
