Adult Audiology First Assessment (136kB pdf)
Introduction
We hope this guide will answer your questions about your First Assessment with the Audiology team.
What is a First Assessment?
In order assess your hearing we will look in your ears and then if your ears are clear and free from obstruction, move onto testing your hearing. Typically, this requires you pressing a button in response to a sound heard whilst using headphones. There are also additional tests we may perform, if they are required. These mostly involve playing sounds into the ear and looking at the response back. We will work with you to find a solution if you can’t perform any of these tests.
Why do I need a First Assessment?
This appointment is to assess your hearing and arrange any management required.
Getting to us
Please check your appointment letter for this information.
Where do you provide appointments?
We provide appointments at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, St. Margaret’s Hospital in Epping and Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at the time stated in your appointment letter and no more than 10 mins ahead of this.
How long will it take?
A typical hearing test usually takes between 45 minutes to 75 minutes.
The day of the appointment:
Who will I see?
You will see an Audiologist, or Student Audiologist. All of our Audiologists are trained to at least BSc (degree). Our students are supervised either with someone in the room, or if they are experienced students, with someone who can be called if they require assistance.
Audiologists are Healthcare Scientists, not Doctors.
Can I bring someone with me?
You are welcome to bring anyone you’d like to your appointment. We would advise against bringing young children as we are not able to supervise them whilst you are undergoing your hearing tests.
After the appointment:
What are the likely outcomes?
Depending on the results, you may be offered no further management, referral to the Ear, Nose and Throat Department for any further investigations, hearing aids, a form of Tinnitus Therapy, or advice regarding listening tactics and assistive listening devices.
Other Questions:
Does your department offer de-waxing?
No, we are unable to offer this service.
Do you fit ‘in the ear (ITE)’ hearing aids?
We do not. This is for several reasons; they tend to break more often as they are encased completely in the ear. When an ITE breaks it also needs sending away for repair, which means patients are without their hearing aids for some time. ITEs also tend to completely enclose the ear canal, which reduces the amount of natural hearing some patients are able to access. Patients who have had surgical alterations to their ear however may be considered for an ITE fitting if they have part of their ear missing.
Contacting the team
Audiology Department: St Margaret’s Hospital, The Plain, Epping, CM16 6TN
Phone number: 01279 827126, Email: [email protected]
If you would like this leaflet in another language or format, or you would like to give feedback on your care, please contact our patient experience team on [email protected]