NHS vs private hearing aids

You may ask yourself, what’s the difference between Online Hearing Care and the hearing aids I can get from the NHS for free? There is no right or wrong answer, as it depends on individual circumstances. But it generally comes down to the features on your hearing aid.

Whether you choose the NHS or private care for your hearing loss, deciding to get treatment is a key decision. Being aware of all options can help you make the best one to suit your lifestyle and health requirements.

An NHS hearing aid usually works well in quiet, one-to-one situations, but if there is background noise, they can make everything louder rather than clearer. The Phonak Paradise hearing aids available from us offer unrivalled natural sound quality, while also adjusting themselves automatically to different sound environments. Depending on the technology level, they can adapt to a variety of listening situations, such as noise, echo and music. You don’t have to do anything yourself if you prefer – just pop them into your ears and let them do all the work!

The level of technology in a private hearing instrument can accommodate different situations. Ultimately, the benefit is a greater level of comfort in a wider range of circumstances.

Your hearing ability is truly unique, therefore the ideal solution should be customised to you. An NHS hearing instrument tends to be a ‘one size fits all’, whereas private devices are designed to match your lifestyle and hearing loss.


FAQs:

Do I need a referral or prescription from my doctor for hearing aids?

If you want to pursue the NHS route for treating your hearing loss, yes, you do.

Taking the private route, you don’t. With Online Hearing Care, choose your service level and hearing aid technology. You can also take an online hearing test to understand your current hearing loss.

How urgent are any hearing loss problems?

The earlier you treat your hearing loss, the better. If you can’t afford to pay privately, getting any treatment for your hearing is better than doing nothing, so please don’t delay.

How quickly can I get hearing aids?

If you choose the NHS route, the longest wait is likely to be for the appointment with the audiology clinic. If you need hearing aids, depending on your hearing loss and what type of hearing aid they issue you, it can take up to eight to 12 weeks. 

With Online Hearing Care, you can receive a solution to your hearing loss, delivered directly to your door, in just a few days.

What are the costs involved in getting a hearing aid?

A hearing aid on the NHS is free on a long-term loan, and batteries and follow-up appointments are free.

A private hearing aid from Online Hearing Care comes as part of a package, including a hearing test, the hearing instrument, and follow-up appointments to make adjustments as your hearing changes. This is all done from the comfort of your own home, with the solution delivered to your door.

Do I need to wait or travel?

With our online model, we send the home hearing test and hearing aids where it suits you. All you need is a good internet connection and a quiet room!

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