Booking Appointments (Hearing)

Decide Where to Get the Hearing Test

You can choose between:

• NHS hearing test: Free of charge.

• Private hearing test: Costs vary but might have shorter waiting times.

Booking an NHS Hearing Test

Contact your GP for a referral:
Most NHS hearing tests require a referral from your GP. You can book a GP appointment by:

• Phone: Call your GP surgery and ask for an appointment.

• Online: Check if your surgery has an online booking system.

• NHS App: Book through the NHS App.

Example script for calling your GP:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I would like to make an appointment to discuss getting a referral for a hearing test. I have noticed changes in my hearing and want to check if this could be addressed. Please could I have an appointment?"

At the GP appointment:
Explain your hearing concerns, any symptoms, and how it's affecting you. The GP may refer you to an audiology department or ENT specialist.

Wait for referral confirmation:
After your GP sends the referral, you will receive details of your audiology appointment by letter or phone.

Booking a Private Hearing Test

If you prefer to go private, you can directly book with providers like:

• Specsavers Hearing Tests: Specsavers Hearing Tests

• Boots Hearingcare: Boots Hearing Tests

• Hidden Hearing: Hidden Hearing Tests

• Visit the website or call the provider’s customer service line.

  • Example script for calling a private provider:
    "Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I would like to book a hearing test at one of your locations. Could you help me arrange an appointment?"

• Provide personal details:
  Be ready to give your name, contact information, and preferred appointment times.

Preparing for the Appointment

Bring:

• ID (if required).

• Any hearing aids you currently use.

• A list of symptoms or concerns about your hearing.

Write down any questions you may have, such as:

• "What could be causing my hearing problems?"

• "Will I need a hearing aid?"

Attending the Appointment

During the test:

The audiologist will:

• Discuss your hearing issues.

• Perform a series of hearing tests (e.g., tones, speech recognition).

• Provide results or discuss the next steps.

Ask questions if needed:
"Can you explain the results to me in more detail?"
"What are my options for improving my hearing?"

After the Appointment

Follow the audiologist’s advice:

• If a hearing aid is recommended, they will guide you on how to get one.

• If further tests are needed, they’ll let you know.

Order a hearing aid (if required):

• NHS hearing aids are free but have limited styles.

• Private options may provide more variety but at a cost.

Schedule follow-ups:
If they suggest a follow-up appointment, make sure to book it before leaving.

Helpful Links and Resources

• NHS Audiology Information: NHS Hearing Tests

• Specsavers Hearing Tests: Specsavers Hearing Tests

• Boots Hearingcare: Boots Hearing Tests

• Hidden Hearing: Hidden Hearing Tests

Contacts

• NHS 111: Call for non-urgent health advice.

• Your GP surgery: Find their number on your surgery's website or through NHS GP Finder.

• Specsavers: 0800 068 0241

• Boots Hearingcare: 0345 270 1600

Final Thoughts

Booking and attending a hearing appointment can be overwhelming. But it is possible to reduce anxiety and feel more confident going into the appointment. Remember to ask for any accommodations you need, and be kind to yourself throughout the process.