hearing aids,

[Jacqueline]

Good for you klondike, when you have paid for the NHS all your working life why should you have to get a hearing aid privately? 

Waiting lists are long here in Wales.  I went stone deaf about 10 years ago, (it turned out I had an autoimune disease all my tubes clogged up, high doses for Steroid sorted me out), I still waited four months to see the ENT consultant.  

[klondike]

Perhaps I should take a trip down to Dover and paddle ashore. Might get some then.

[GrannyMac]

You'll need to get a GP referral klondike. A phone appointment will probably do.  I have NHS digital aids, moderate hearing loss in both ears, recently had a retest, and have an appointment with audiology in a couple of weeks for new moulds. 

Once we got the balance right, I've found them to be pretty effective and of course, free, as are the batteries!

I hope you can get a test soon.

[Countryman]

Why not have the free test I suggested? You might not need aids. If you do, then go to your GP for a referral.

[klondike]

I've tried 3 online tests and I know from my problem with many film soundtracks that my hearing needs testing at the very least. I've requested a referral through my GP. I have no intention of buying hearing aids and that is what all the "free" tests will steer people to. These companies are not charities after all.

[GrannyMac]

Hope it comes through soon k.  Let us know how you get on.

[klondike]

Rather than sit on the phone for an age I used their online "questionnaire" which is used for same day phone consultations. It has been out of action for a week supposedly due to staff shortages.

As there used to be at least half a dozen and probably more GPs I assume it means the one that couldn't make golf recovered but now there is a locum.