Specsavers has urged the profession to work together to support the NHS after a new report highlighted a shortage of audiologists in the UK to tackle the growing demand for hearing care.
‘It’s time to talk about hearing’ - the 2024 hearing health report, called for the introduction of a nationally commissioned primary care audiology service in all communities to supplement NHS hospital services.
Commissioning ear wax removal by primary care audiologists and investment in better IT connectivity to link primary and secondary ear and hearing care were also highlighted.
Age-related hearing loss was found to be the third most common reason for people leaving the workforce and 4.4m workers currently live with hearing loss, according to the report.
‘Encouraging the use of hearing technology as a means of continuing employment, tackling stigma around the condition, and making hearing care services as accessible as possible, are vital for the nation’s health,’ said Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers.
