The Treatment Benefit Scheme run by the Department of Social Protection has increased support for hearing aid products and services from March 27. A welcome change as a recent study by Hidden Hearing shows one in two Irish adults know someone that has experienced hearing loss, and seven per cent of the Irish public feel their hearing has declined in the last year.
Currently, the Government pays half the cost of a hearing aid subject to a fixed maximum of €500 for each hearing aid once every four years. It also pays half the cost of repairs to aids, up to a maximum of €100, once every four years.
From March 27, the Department will pay the full cost of a hearing aid up to a maximum of €500 (€1,000 for a pair ) once every four years. It will also pay the full cost of repairs to aids, up to a maximum of €100, once every four years.
"It is good news that the Government is making hearing aids more accessible, particularly to those on lower incomes. Hearing loss dramatically impacts quality of life and can have serious knock-on effects in other areas of health, with links to depression, diabetes, dementia and stroke where poor hearing is untreated," says Dolores Madden, audiologist and marketing director at Hidden Hearing.
“It has been a tough year for everyone, but the end is in sight and we are all thinking about what we are going to experience when the restrictions lift. We are encouraging those who are worried about their hearing to book in for a free test now to be ready for the world when it reopens," Madden adds.
After a year which has felt muted for most people, 88 per cent have missed the sound of catch ups with friends in a café during the Covid-19 lockdown period, while eight in 10 would be happy to go for a hearing test.
Hidden Hearing clinics are open countrywide and are an essential service which will run even during lockdown. Those enquiring about an urgent appointment, or who wish to book a consultation, can call 1800 370 000 for general patient enquiries.
Hidden Hearing is Ireland’s longest established exclusive hearing care experts with almost 30 years’ experience. Safety protocols are in place at all Hidden Hearing clinics for the utmost patient care, so visitors can attend clinics in safety and confidence. Check www.hiddenhearing.ie for further details.
