FAQ
Put your mind at rest
Just like your eyes and your teeth, your hearing should be regularly checked to monitor gradual changes and flag up any issues.
If you’ve not had a hearing test before, it’s quite normal to have a few questions about what the process entails.
How do I know if I have a hearing problem?
Our hearing is like our eyesight in that we rarely notice the small changes. We get used to the gradual changes and adjust our behaviour to compensate for the problem that develop over time. If you do have any concerns, and you’d like to know whether they might be justified, it’s worth asking yourself the following. Do you find it difficult to follow conversations when you’re in a large group of people, and does that mean you avoid certain events? Perhaps you think other people mumble or speak softly, or you find it difficult to cope with background noise? People often describe hearing better with one ear than the other, and that can lead to family and friends having to repeat things for you? - If you answered “yes” to three or more of these questions, then it makes sense to book a hearing test.
Do I have to ask a doctor to refer me?
No, not at all. You don’t need a doctor’s referral for your optician or dentist, and you don’t need one to come to us. If you choose to come to one of our Hearing Care centres, you’ll get an appointment within a week. In contrast, NHS assessment waiting times can take several weeks, with further waits for hearing aids, if it turns out that is the correct course of action.
Do I need to bring anything to my consultation?
Just yourself! Like most people who come to us, you may find that having a friend or relative at your side is useful, especially as they may have additional questions you’d never thought of. There’s no need to bring any documents or medical notes – we’ll make time to listen to any concerns you might have and your full assessment will centre around your story, and the problems you are experiencing. After the test, we will explain the results clearly without bombarding you with clinical jargon, and you’ll never be rushed away without understanding what any next steps might be. You’re welcome to bring someone with you though.
How long will a consultation take?
As we like to get to know you so we can understand your lifestyle and any concerns you may have, your initial appointment for a hearing test should take around an hour. To get a complete picture about your hearing health, we use the very latest audiology equipment for the assessment, which takes place in a sound proof booth. When the test is complete we’ll be able to talk you through your results straight away and make sure you understand every aspect before discussing your options.
Will it hurt?
No, but this is a natural question to ask. Don’t worry, the test is a series of sounds and isn't invasive at all. We make sure you’re relaxed and know what to expect every step of the way. If we find you do need a hearing aid, depending on the severity of your hearing loss, we may have to take an impression of your ear. This is similar to a dental impression, and it isn’t painful.
Will I need to have a hearing aid?
Not necessarily. In the same way we fit hearing aids when required, we avoid fitting hearing aids if they aren't. Not everyone will need a hearing aid, but in our experience, previous clients who have had hearing aids fitted to help with their hearing problems tend to agree that they make their lives better. If a hearing aid is something we recommend after your hearing test, we’ll work with you to understand the type that will be best for your needs. Only then will we offer you the choice of a range of models from the most respected manufacturers.
How long will it take to get a hearing aid?
From just a few days to two weeks – it all depends on the type of hearing instrument that you decide to have. If we send off impressions of your ears to the manufacturer, you’ll be getting a hearing aid that is specifically designed and crafted just for you, which is why it can take up to 14 days. Once your hearing aid is ready, we’ll book another appointment for a full fitting and show you how to use and care for your new life-changing device.
How will I know if my new hearing aid works?
Simple. From running through the functions to setting the appropriate sound amplification to suit your hearing loss, we’ll make sure you understand every aspect of your new hearing aid before you leave us. Our friendly, one-to-one training session is all about helping you get the most out of your hearing aid and making sure you feel comfortable and happy with it, and offer annual check-ups so we can make sure the hearing aid is working as it should be.
What's included in the cost?
A hearing test appointment in one of our clinics will cost £90. If you’re unable to come to us, we also offer home visits which start at £100 and cover postcode areas N, NW, HA, WD, EN. From there, there is no obligation to purchase a hearing aid after your test. We can talk you through pricing options as these range based on the technology you have selected.
What if I have a question after I leave?
Feel free to ask. Nathan and his team will always be available to answer any queries or concerns you may have with your new hearing aid.
If I can't come to you, will you come to me?
Home visits are easily arranged and Nathan’s staff will be happy to book a time that’s convenient for you.
Complete this form to book an appointment or get in touch with us
Get in touch
If you’re concerned you may have a problem with your hearing, or you’d like to arrange a hearing test for a family member, we’re here to help.
Nathan Gluck Hearing Care,
20 Wentworth Road,
Golders Green, London,
NW11 0RP, UK
We accept:
