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Doctor's Resources

Hearing loss and your patients.

You may be the first person your patients or their families turn to when they suspect a hearing problem.

Nearly one in ten patients has some degree of hearing loss. That is why screening for the presence of hearing loss is such an important part of a regular physical examination, especially in patients over the age of 40. Studies have shown that the earlier the diagnosis is made, the greater the success rate for patient acceptance of treatment.

Detecting Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is easily identified through clinical evaluation including history taking, ear examination and pure tone screening. Simple conversation with the patient or the patient's family will also provide indications.

Does the patient often ask for statements, directions or questions to be repeated?
Do they respond inappropriately?

Remember your office is the optimal listening environment -
if your patient encounters difficulties in the quiet of your office, the problem is probably far worse in their regular listening environments.

Does your patient complain of other people's mumbling? It may be the patient's hearing is impaire

Does the patient consistently turn one ear towards you? There may be a higher degree of hearing loss in one ear.

Does the patient speak too softly or too loudly? Inappropriate voice volume can signal hearing loss.

Has the patient worked in a noisy environment? May have Noise Induced Hearing Loss

Does the patient complain of difficulties understanding in noisy situations such as group functions, shopping centers or restaurants?

Withdrawal from social situations or depression may be reactions to hearing impairment.

NOTE:
The provision of hearing services does not mean that hearing instruments will necessarily be prescribed. In some cases further investigation or treatment may be required by Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists. Should any contra-indicators to hearing aid fitting become evident in hearing testing our clinicians will refer back to the GP with a report for appropriate follow-up.

All of our practitioners are fully trained, and accredited by the Office of hearing Services.
Their recommendation will be based upon the most appropriate and beneficial course of action for your patient.

We are committed to providing the most appropriate and advanced hearing solutions when the need arises.

Talking to your patients about hearing loss

Even though daily living with hearing impairment may be difficult, your patient may still be uncomfortable with the possibility of having to wear a hearing aid and therefore resist the recommendation to have a hearing assessment.

Your assurance can make the difference in how a patient reacts to hearing loss, and in accepting any action recommended.

These facts may help your patients feel better about acknowledging their problem.

More than 10% of the population has a hearing loss.
A few of the problems can be improved by medication or surgery.
In 90% of cases, hearing problems are helped considerably with professionally fitted hearing aids.

Hearing aid technology is advancing rapidly to make hearing aids:

easier to manage
more automatic
more effective
more comfortable
smaller
less conspicuous

Patients eligible for free hearing services

Your patient may be eligible for FREE hearing services under the Office of Hearing Services scheme if on a full or part pension or a DVA cardholder.

To initiate the program please examine your patient, check for any aural obstructions or medical conditions that would contraindicate hearing aid fitting. Removal of excess cerumen is recommended.

Complete the Referral section on the Commonwealth Hearing Services Program application form if appropriate. The patient must then complete the application with their details and post the form to Canberra for processing. If eligible, your patient should receive a voucher after about 3 - 4 weeks, that will entitle them to receive appropriate hearing services from a company such as ours.