Hearing Aids......NHS Vs private ??

[All uphill]

@Dave7 I would thoroughly recommend SpecSavers and the NHS aids. In my area one simply books an appointment directly with the store, online if you wish. The staff are friendly, helpful and professional. Everything is free. I would be surprised if NHS via Specsavers is post code dependent but I'm sure a quick call to your local store will tell you. I don't think you need to go via your GP, a hospital or other NHS clinic.

As I recall on my first visit, 3 - 4 years ago, I left after the test with my first set of aids.

My aids are run through an app. A couple of images below of what I can do. I find this more than adequate. The TV mode isn't a Bluetooth connection, just a volume type. I'm hoping for a TV connection next time. Currently I can use the aids connected to my car, phone, laptop or tablet. Be aware if you're listening to something via your aids you probably won't hear anything else......like someone speaking to you........trust me on this one 🤣

View attachment 787216

View attachment 787215

My understanding from our local NHS audiology department is that some trusts put the work of assessing and fitting hearing aids to Specsavers during and after COVID, in order to free some capacity

Locally that work has now gone back to the NHS.

 

[Alex321]

I have Phonak NHS hearing aids, they're pretty small and bluetooth to my phone.

There's also an app where I can select various modes for various situations. I don't wear them much as it is only minor hearing loss, but I'm pretty impressed with them. I'm told they cost £90 or so each to replace. They seem to chew through batteries (supplied FOC with the hearing aids).

I have phonak ones as well, but mine were private, and cost £3000 for the pair (with 5 year guarantee). I find them really excellent, make huge difference to my hearing, plus stream calls and other audio from my phone, or computer wor work laptop. THey are rechargeable, not separate batteries, which also makes a difference - I had battery ones (different brand) previously, but those just weren't good enough for the hearing loss in my left ear.

Mine are the Slim L90-R model, what are yours?

 

[JohnCl]

If you are going private then I have one word for you, Costco.

 

[PaulSB]

My understanding from our local NHS audiology department is that some trusts put the work of assessing and fitting hearing aids to Specsavers during and after COVID, in order to free some capacity

Locally that work has now gone back to the NHS.

Quite possibly. My local trust has contracted out a lot of services.

 

[Arjimlad]

I have phonak ones as well, but mine were private, and cost £3000 for the pair (with 5 year guarantee). I find them really excellent, make huge difference to my hearing, plus stream calls and other audio from my phone, or computer wor work laptop. THey are rechargeable, not separate batteries, which also makes a difference - I had battery ones (different brand) previously, but those just weren't good enough for the hearing loss in my left ear.

Mine are the Slim L90-R model, what are yours?

Bolero M70-M ...they also stream calls and audio from my phone.