NHS Hearing Aids: What's Available and How to Get Them

The NHS provides hearing aids free of charge to anyone who needs them, making quality hearing care accessible regardless of your financial situation. Here's everything you need to know about NHS hearing aids.

Types of NHS hearing aids

The NHS primarily offers behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. These are worn behind the ear with a tube that channels sound into the ear canal via an ear mould. Modern NHS hearing aids are digital and come from respected manufacturers such as Phonak and Danalogic. While BTE models are the standard, some NHS departments may offer receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids where clinically appropriate.

What's included

NHS hearing aids come with a comprehensive support package at no cost:

• The hearing aid device and ear mould
• Professional fitting and programming
• Replacement batteries (free from your audiology department or by post)
• Repairs and servicing
• Follow-up appointments for adjustments
• Replacement tubing and ear moulds as needed

How NHS hearing aids compare

NHS hearing aids are clinically effective and suitable for most types of hearing loss. However, private hearing aids may offer additional features such as Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, invisible styles, and more sophisticated noise reduction. The choice between NHS and private depends on your priorities and budget.

Getting started

To receive NHS hearing aids, ask your GP for a referral to your local audiology department. After a hearing assessment, if hearing aids are recommended, you'll be fitted with the most appropriate device for your hearing loss pattern. The audiologist will programme the aids to match your specific audiogram and provide guidance on using and maintaining them.