Private Hearing Aids vs NHS: Which is Best for You?

Are you weighing the pros and cons of private hearing aids vs NHS options? In this article, the team here at K & M Hearing Solutions ask Kara Butterworth (head audiologist) for her expert opinion on this subject and dive into the key differences in cost, technology, availability, and aftercare. We cover what makes private hearing aids better than NHS options, the reasons for differences in cost and which type is better for your overall hearing health, this blog will help you choose the best option for your personal hearing needs.

Ask the Audiologist

What are the key differences in technology and features between private hearing aids and those provided by the NHS?
"There are key differences in the testing you will undergo privately compared to NHS routes. This will of course depend on where the person goes privately - as this can vary greatly. How is what I do different from anywhere else?

• I spend 90 minutes during the initial consultation
• I take a thorough medical history and discuss your needs 
• I discuss your "wish list" to find out what your desires are from hearing technology and how can I meet this
• I carry out video otoscopy and show my patient on the large screen the inside of their own ear
• I carry out a pure tone audiogram inside a sound booth for more accurate results
• I carry out tympanometry to assess the middle ear 
• I carry out speech audiometry to assess how well the person is hearing speech
• I carry out speech in noise testing to assess how well the person is processing sound in complex environments
• I discuss all the findings and make recommendations based upon this
• I give a live demonstration of hearing aid technology to evaluate the best solution for the individual
• I go through all the hearing aid packages available and discuss the ongoing aftercare 

On the NHS the appointment tends to be 30 minutes long whereby they will perform otoscopy, take a medical history and complete a Pure Tone Audiogram. A key advantage to NHS hearing aids is that there is no cost involved.

​The patient will receive, if appropriate, a pair of digital NHS hearing aids. They will be over the ear, and generally tend to be larger than what is available privately, so they are more visible. The NHS aids tend to be an "open fit behind the ear hearing aid" or "behind the ear hearing aid with ear moulds." Some NHS departments are now offering NHS aids which are "receivers in the ears" which are more discreet than the open fit option. The NHS aids tend to be older technology with basic features, and as such the technology falls behind what technology is available privately. "

Why do people choose private hearing aids over free NHS ones?
"There are common reasons why people opt to go down the private route as the best option for them. 

1. They want better technology 
2. They want better, on demand, service
3. They want more discreet technology 
4. They want to be seen quicker

 
There is a cost involved when obtaining hearing aids privately. An advantage of going private is choice. There are different styles, colours and manufacturers to choose from. The wearer may want the ability to stream their music or phone calls in their hearing aids. There are hearing aids with health options which not only monitor how active a person has been, but also gathers data on the listening environments the person is typically in, and how much the person is conversing. Don't worry the aids are not recording conversations or locations, or anything like that! They are simply gathering data on the number of hours someone is in a loud environment, quiet environments and how much time was spent conversing in those environments.
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Why is this important? Well it provides useful information to your audiologist to enable them to tailor your hearing aids to your lifestyle. There are many features available on private hearing aids such as wind noise reduction, sudden impact sounds reduction, speech in noise, machine noise reduction, speech clarity and processing features to name but a few."

Do private hearing aids offer clear advantages for certain hearing loss conditions or lifestyles?
"A major advantage of going private, when they have a complex hearing loss, is that they will undoubtedly be seen quicker and can therefore obtain hearing aids far quicker. Complex losses cannot be seen on the highstreet for NHS provision, but must be referred to the hospital, where there is ENT support available.

As previously mentioned, the waits can therefore be very long - 10 -12 months in my area. As a private independent, I have a relationship with the private ENT clinic and can send referrals directly to them if the individual wishes to go this route. In the meantime, I can often (depending on the condition), get the patient started on their hearing aid journey immediately. If the person does not want to see ENT privately, I am able to send a referral, via email, directly to their GP to request an onward referral to ENT on the NHS, and still, if appropriate, fit the person with their private aids. For those wanting to go the NHS route for hearing aids, I also refer back to the GP for this too."

Can you give an example of a patient who benefited from choosing private hearing aids over NHS ones?
"View Linda's story on our customer stories page, purchasing private hearing aids is certainly an investment. What you will get is far better technology and dedicated ongoing care and support. Whether deciding to go private or through the NHS, it is very important that you trust your audiologist as they will be working with you for a very long time. So make sure you find an audiologist that makes you feel safe, valued and cared for."

​Key Differences - NHS vs Private Hearing Aids

When comparing NHS vs private hearing, the biggest factor lies in the choice and variety. Hearing aids are available on the NHS for free but there is a limited selection, largely relying on contracts with specific manufacturers. This often means you’ll primarily find older Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models in NHS hearing aids.
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On the other hand, although they use the same manufacturers, private providers offer a wider range with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, customisable apps, they can also be equipped with powerful sensors that seamlessly adapt as your listening environment changes to reduce background noise, this type of advanced technology is often not available with NHS hearing aids. This can significantly enhance the user’s hearing experience, especially for those with active lifestyles or severe hearing loss. If you want to buy hearing aids privately, you can explore various options that suit your needs like in the canal aids for a more discreet option.

Comparison Chart - Private Hearing Aids vs NHS

View our comparison chart for a quick overview on this subject, looking at 5 main factors when comparing private and NHS hearings aids.

​Cost Comparison

NHS hearing aids are free
The financial aspect is a critical factor when deciding between the two options. NHS hearing aids are free at no charge; however, they are technically on loan and remain NHS property. Follow-up services, including adjustments and battery replacements, are also provided at no cost, making it a financially appealing option for many. If NHS hearing aids are lost or damaged due to negligence, the user may have to pay for their replacement.

Private Hearing Aids Cost Breakdown
Understanding the cost breakdown of private providers is essential for making an informed decision. Prices can range from approximately £700 to £5,500+ per pair, depending on the brand and technology.

Ongoing costs, such as batteries and maintenance, can add an average of £3 to £5 monthly. Some providers offer included services like disposable batteries for a limited time, affecting long-term costs. The overall cost of hearing aids includes not just the purchase price but also heating tests, fitting and aftercare services.
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Replacement costs for broken parts or accessories can range from £40 to £400, depending on the item. Understanding these costs can help you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses in the future.

Customisation and Fitting

Customisation and correct fitting are critical for ensuring that your hearing aids are comfortable and effective. Private hearing aid providers excel in advanced fitting services tailored to individual ear shapes and sizes. This personalised approach often starts with comprehensive consultations to determine specific hearing needs, leading to more accurate and comfortable device adjustments.
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Private audiologists can provide ongoing adjustments to hearing aids as patients’ hearing requirements change over time. The option for tailored adjustments ensures that your hearing aids continue to meet your needs effectively, keeping a snug fit creates a better hearing solution. From a variety of styles and colours to nearly invisible options, wearing hearing aids from private providers gives users a higher level of customisation that can significantly enhance the user experience.

​Access and Waiting Times

Waiting times can significantly impact your decision between NHS and private hearing aids. The average waiting list time for getting NHS hearing aids is around 12 weeks, including approximately six weeks for an initial hearing test and another six weeks for the fitting. In some regions, this wait can extend up to 18 weeks, depending on service availability and demand. For any fine tuning or reviews the waiting time can be around 10-12 months.
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Private audiologists typically offer quicker access to hearing aids, with fittings often occurring within 1 to 3 weeks following the initial hearing assessment. This faster turnaround can be crucial for those experiencing significant hearing difficulties and looking to improve their hearing health without delay. The shorter waiting times with private providers can help avoid the lengthy queues and delays often associated with NHS services.

​Lifestyle Considerations

Your day to day life plays a pivotal role in deciding between NHS and private hearing aids. Personal differences, such as daily activities and lifestyle preferences, are essential factors to consider. For instance, if you wear two hearing aids and lead an active lifestyle with frequent exposure to different environments, the advanced fitment and features of private hearing devices may better suit your needs.
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Understanding your unique hearing loss requirements is crucial to finding a solution that fits your everyday activities and enhances your quality of life is better. Its important to know what you need from a device, you may prioritise an aid that performs well in noisy social settings or one that is easy to connect to your smartphone, choosing the right hearing aid can make a significant difference in your daily life.

​Impact on Hearing Health

The choice of hearing aids can have long-term implications for your hearing health. This article from the Alzheimers society states that individuals who experience hearing loss during middle age are at a greater risk of developing dementia. However, wearing hearing aids can help lower this risk to levels comparable to individuals with normal hearing. Read our blog on the connections beteween hearing loss and dementia here.
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Even mild hearing loss significantly raises the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Hearing aids contribute to reducing social isolation, which is a known risk factor for dementia. By improving hearing abilities, hearing aids can enhance overall life quality and slow the decline in memory capabilities. Remember rapid hearing loss should be treated quickly, read our blog on what to do if your experience sudden hearing loss here. When choosing NHS hearing aids or private ones, the key is to ensure you use them consistently to gain the maximum benefits for your hearing health and overall well-being.

Hearing Aid Aftercare

Aftercare is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing between NHS hearing options and private. Although free hearing aids are available on the NHS they often lack structured follow-up plans compared to private services. While the NHS provides follow-up appointments, they can only provide basic aftercare that typically covers routine maintenance and does not provide extensive ongoing assistance.
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Private hearing aid providers, on the other hand, generally offer more comprehensive ongoing support and adjustments. This usually comes with shorter waiting times for aftercare support and more personalised service. It’s important to inquire about the availability of follow-up care and support services included in the hearing aid purchase to ensure you receive the best possible care. Find out about our aftercare services.

​How to Get an NHS Hearing Aid

Obtaining an NHS hearing aid begins with a visit to your GP if you have hearing issues. If your GP suspects hearing loss, they can refer you to a NHS hearing aid provider for further evaluation. This referral is a crucial step in the process, ensuring that you receive a professional assessment of your hearing needs.

If hearing aids are recommended by the NHS audiologist, they will be tailored to meet your specific hearing loss profile. After receiving your hearing aid, follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure its effectiveness and user comfort.
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NHS hearing aids typically offer a practical solution for individuals with hearing loss in the UK. These hearing aids provided by the National Health Service (NHS) are offered free of charge as a long-term loan, ensuring accessibility for those who need them. Along with the devices themselves, the NHS also includes free batteries and repairs.

​How to Get Private Hearing Aids

To get private hearing aids, the first step is to contact a private audiologist. Book a hearing test to assess your current hearing condition and discuss the options available to you. This initial consultation is vital for understanding your specific requirements and selecting the most suitable hearing aid for you.
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During the consultation, you can explore various models and features, ensuring that the chosen device fits your day to day life and individual preferences. Private audiologists often have more flexibility in terms of fittings and ongoing support, making the process of buying privately smoother and more personalised.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing between NHS and private hearing aids involves several factors, including cost, technology, customisation, and aftercare. NHS hearing aids are financially accessible and come with no upfront costs, but they may lack the advanced features and the quick delivery times of private options. Private hearing aids, while more expensive, provide a broader range of styles and technologies, tailored fittings, and comprehensive aftercare.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and financial situation. Weighing the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed choice that enhances your hearing health, helps manage hearing loss and overall quality of life. Remember, the right hearing aid with the latest technology can make a significant difference in your daily interactions and long-term well-being. Book your hearing test with K&M Hearing Solutions to start your better hearing journey.

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