The survey is for both NHS and private sector audiologists. Respondents will have the opportunity to leave detailed comments on a range of topics related to hearing health and hearing technology.

Last year’s survey saw a 100% increase in respondents from 2022. Core topics included why patients delay visiting their audiologist, what groups are most proactive in seeking support, the repercussions of NHS waiting times and what people’s priorities are when choosing a hearing instrument.

“Our 2023 survey produced some fascinating answers about patients and their motivation for visiting their audiologist. We were particularly happy to see an increase in younger people booking a hearing appointment. While, proportionally, those in the 70+ age bracket are at the highest risk of hearing loss, it’s an issue that impacts people at all stages of life.” said Paul.

The 2023 survey report

Alongside the launch of the 2024 survey, BIHIMA is also releasing a report based on the 2023 survey featuring the key stats from responses and a selection of quotes from audiologists, with a high proportion stating that some of the major obstacles between people with hearing loss and appropriate hearing care are a result of inefficient marketing.

Speaking of the 2023 report, Paul said: “It’s widely acknowledged that marketing around hearing aids is dated and in need of a makeover. Often, we see images depicting bulky, unattractive hearing instruments rather than the modern, sleek technology which is now available. Thankfully, we have seen some shifts in this since launching our 2023 survey, with organisations like hearing instrument manufacturer GN Group launching their ‘The New Norm’ image campaign.

“We also believe – and the audiologists surveyed agree – that there needs to be more imagery with younger wearers to remind people that hearing loss isn’t something that only impacts older people.”

Another popular topic was around ear wax removal, and the lack of legislation around those who can and cannot perform the treatment, with many respondents stating that the biggest challenge facing the hearing industry.

When asked what could be done to improve the industry, one respondent stated, “Strict regulations governing wax removal and hearing assessment so that private companies cannot train non-medical staff to perform these procedures after very limited training and no supervision afterwards.”

The report concludes by asking audiologists what provisions they believe could be made to modernise hearing instruments. 

“The survey showed an overwhelming consensus that there is still a stigma attached to wearing hearing instruments, and so we wanted to end on a high by asking the audiologists directly what they thought could be done to challenge this. Answers ranged from more collaborations between NHS and private companies, increased incentives, more media buy-in and technology that sat closer to a fashion statement than a medical device,” said Paul.

You can download the full report here. The report contains responses from audiologists working in private practices and not the NHS – the number of public sector responses was too low to be considered representative and therefore has not been included.

Take part in the 2024 audiologist survey

Do you want to be a part of the next audiologist survey report? All you have to do is follow this link. We encourage recipients to be as honest as possible – we want to know your genuine thoughts, challenges and concerns. Our hope is that we can increase our responses and particularly from the public sector so we can then use this information to help shape the future of hearing health in the UK.

And once you’ve completed the survey? Don’t forget to let us know by sharing on Facebook, LinkedIn or X using the hashtag #AudiologistSurvey. We’re looking forward to reading your responses.