NHS vs Private Hearing Aids UK: Making the Right Choice in 2025

Facing hearing loss often brings UK residents to a common crossroads: should you pursue hearing aids through the National Health Service (NHS) or opt for a private hearing care provider? This is a question frequently encountered by audiologists, and understanding the differences between these two pathways is crucial for making a decision that aligns with your hearing needs, lifestyle, and priorities.¹ This article aims to provide a clear, comprehensive comparison of NHS and private hearing aid options available in the UK today. We will delve into key factors including the technology offered, associated costs, typical waiting times, the level of choice available, and the nature of aftercare support provided.² Making an informed choice about your hearing care is vital.

Hearco (https://www.hearco.co.uk/) offers expert, personalised private hearing care solutions across the UK. Our commitment is to help you navigate these options and find the best path forward for your individual hearing journey. It's widely acknowledged that addressing hearing loss promptly yields better results; delaying treatment can make adaptation more challenging later on.¹ Whether you choose the NHS or private route, taking action sooner rather than later is key.

Often, the decision is framed around the concept of "free" NHS provision versus the "investment" required for private care.³ While NHS hearing aids are provided without direct cost to the patient¹, private hearing care represents a financial commitment.² This fundamental difference shapes perceptions, but the true comparison involves looking beyond the price tag to understand the distinct value, technology, service levels, and outcomes associated with each option.

The NHS Hearing Aid Route: Understanding the Standard Path

Accessing hearing aids via the NHS typically follows a set procedure. The journey begins with a visit to your General Practitioner (GP), who, upon identifying a potential need, will refer you to an NHS audiology service for assessment.¹ This GP referral is a mandatory step for accessing NHS hearing care.⁵ Following the referral, you will undergo a hearing assessment conducted by an NHS audiologist, and if hearing aids are deemed appropriate, they will be fitted during a subsequent appointment.

The hearing aids typically offered through the NHS are digital Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models.¹ These devices are functional and utilise digital technology, which has improved over the years.¹³ They often include basic features like noise reduction and directional microphones designed to help in various listening situations.¹⁶ Since 2022, wireless functionality, including Bluetooth compatibility, has become a requirement for new devices added to the NHS supply chain, although the availability and sophistication might vary compared to the latest private models.¹⁷ While generally reliable, some regional variations exist, but BTE remains the standard offering.¹¹

The most significant advantage of the NHS route is the cost. The hearing assessment, the hearing aids themselves, standard batteries, and necessary follow-up appointments and repairs are provided free of charge to eligible individuals, with the aids supplied on a long-term loan basis.¹ However, this pathway comes with potential limitations, primarily concerning the restricted choice in hearing aid styles and technology levels, and the possibility of extended waiting times for appointments and fittings.²

In reality, NHS hearing aids are now predominantly fitted by large chains, mostly notable optical chains, under Any Qualified Provider (AQP) contracts. The problem with this, is these corporations have very tight targets – so you can expect to attend a busy store, and your test and fitting will be squashed into one appointment, therefore most people leave the appointment unsatisfied and unable to use the hearing aids fitted. Furthermore, the specific models available and the length of waiting lists can differ considerably depending on the local NHS Trust or Integrated Care Board (ICB), meaning the patient experience is not uniform across the UK.²

The Private Hearing Care Alternative: Investing in Personalised Solutions

In contrast to the NHS pathway, accessing private hearing care offers direct and immediate access. Patients do not require a referral from their GP; they can contact and book appointments directly with private audiology clinics like Hearco (https://hearco.setmore.com) at their convenience.¹

Private providers typically offer access to the very latest hearing aid technology from a wide range of global manufacturers.² This translates into a much broader choice of hearing aid styles, including highly discreet and invisible options such as Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC), which are generally unavailable through the NHS.¹ A hallmark of the private sector is the emphasis on personalised service. Consultations are often more in-depth, and the fitting process is meticulously tailored to the individual's specific hearing loss profile, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences.¹ Furthermore, the cost of private hearing aids usually includes a comprehensive aftercare package, ensuring ongoing support, adjustments, and maintenance.¹

Choosing private hearing care is thus positioned as an investment in one's hearing health, offering potentially superior outcomes through faster access, advanced technology, greater choice, and a higher level of personalised service.¹ Explore the range of solutions available through Hearco's Hearing Aids page (https://www.hearco.co.uk/hearing-aids). It is worth noting that within the private sector, experiences can differ. While large national chains like Boots, Specsavers, Amplifon, and Hidden Hearing are prominent, independent audiologists often receive higher satisfaction ratings for service quality.⁴¹ Independents may also offer a broader, unbiased selection from all manufacturers, unlike some chains that might have exclusive agreements or promote specific brands.³³ This potential for truly impartial advice and highly personalised care is a key consideration when selecting a private provider.

NHS vs Private Hearing Aids: A Detailed UK Comparison

To help you weigh the options more effectively, let's break down the key differences across several critical areas:

Technology & Features

• NHS: The standard offering consists primarily of digital Behind-the-Ear (BTE) aids.¹ While these are functional digital devices, the underlying technology is often considered older than what's available privately – sometimes cited as being 6-8 years behind the latest innovations.⁴ NHS aids generally perform adequately in quiet, one-on-one conversations but can struggle in environments with significant background noise, sometimes amplifying all sounds rather than selectively clarifying speech.¹ Basic noise reduction and directional microphone features may be included ¹⁶, and newer models might offer Bluetooth connectivity, though perhaps not as advanced or universally available as in the private sector.¹⁷ Customisation options tend to be limited.³

• Private: Provides access to the cutting edge of hearing aid technology from a diverse range of global manufacturers.² Advanced features are commonplace and designed to tackle specific listening challenges. These often include highly sophisticated noise reduction algorithms that focus on enhancing speech clarity in complex soundscapes, artificial intelligence (AI) that automatically adapts settings to changing environments, seamless Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from smartphones, TVs, and other devices, convenient rechargeable battery options, and specialised programs for managing tinnitus.¹ Research supports the effectiveness of features like advanced directional microphones and noise cancellation in significantly improving speech understanding in noisy situations.²⁵ Furthermore, a wide array of styles is available, catering to both hearing needs and cosmetic preferences, including very discreet options like IIC and CIC models.¹

The technological gap between NHS and private hearing aids has direct implications for daily life. While NHS aids can be effective in quiet settings, their limitations in managing background noise can hinder communication in common social situations like restaurants, family gatherings, or busy public spaces.¹ The advanced features available privately are specifically engineered to address these challenging environments, aiming to reduce listening effort and improve participation for individuals with active lifestyles or those who frequently encounter background noise.¹

Waiting Times

• NHS: Access begins with a mandatory GP referral.¹ Following this, waiting times for the initial audiology assessment and subsequent hearing aid fitting can be substantial and vary significantly depending on the region and current demand. Cited examples range from 8-12 weeks total ¹, an average of 12 weeks (6 for test, 6 for fitting) ¹⁰, 4-6 months locally in some areas ², or even longer, particularly in areas facing resource constraints or backlogs.¹² While the NHS aims for targets like 18 weeks from referral to treatment commencement for many services ¹⁰, audiology waiting times can exceed this, sometimes stretching to over a year in challenging circumstances.²⁹ Delays can be attributed to high demand, limited resources, and the lingering impact of events like the COVID-19 pandemic.² Waiting times for reassessments or adjustments can also be lengthy.¹²

• Private: Offers direct access without needing a GP referral.¹ Appointments for hearing assessments are typically available much more quickly, often within a few days or a couple of weeks.¹ The fitting of hearing aids can also be expedited; depending on whether custom earmoulds are required, fitting might occur on the same day, within a few days, or generally within 1-3 weeks of the assessment.¹

The disparity in waiting times is more than just an inconvenience. Evidence suggests that the earlier hearing loss is addressed with hearing aids, the better the outcome and the easier the adjustment process.¹ Extended delays in receiving treatment, as can occur with NHS waiting lists, mean prolonged periods of unmanaged hearing loss. This can potentially make adaptation to amplification more difficult later and delays the significant quality of life improvements that hearing aids can provide. Therefore, the faster access offered by the private route represents a tangible health benefit, allowing for quicker intervention.

Cost & Value

• NHS: The primary appeal is that hearing aids, fitting, standard batteries, repairs, and follow-up care are provided free of charge to the patient.¹ It's important to remember these aids are provided on a long-term loan and remain the property of the NHS.³ While repairs are free, a charge may be levied if the aids are lost or damaged through negligence, often under £200.³

• Private: This route requires financial investment. The cost of private hearing aids varies considerably depending on the level of technology, included features, the chosen brand, and the provider. Prices can range from approximately £400-£800 per aid for more basic models up to £1500-£3500 or even more per aid for the most advanced, premium devices.⁶ The average cost for a pair is often cited around £3,000.¹⁴ To make this investment more manageable, many private providers offer financing options or payment plans.³ Crucially, the price typically reflects a bundled package that includes not just the devices but also the comprehensive assessment, personalised fitting, an extended warranty (often 3-5 years), and a period of dedicated aftercare support.¹ Thinking about the cost spread over the lifespan of the aids (e.g., £3,500 over 8 years equates to about £1.20 per day ⁹) can help put the investment into perspective relative to the daily benefits.

This highlights that the comparison extends beyond a simple "free versus paid" scenario. The cost associated with private hearing aids encompasses a comprehensive package of advanced technology, rapid access, extensive choice, highly personalised service, and robust ongoing support.¹ Therefore, the decision involves weighing the value of this premium, tailored package against the standard, albeit free, offering provided by the NHS.

Choice & Personalisation

• NHS: Offers limited choice regarding hearing aid styles, typically defaulting to BTE models.¹ The range of manufacturers and specific models is restricted due to NHS contracts and budget constraints.¹⁵ The fitting approach is often described as more standardised, sometimes characterised as "one size fits all," offering less flexibility for individual cosmetic preferences or specific lifestyle needs.¹ Invisible hearing aid styles are generally not an option through the NHS.¹

• Private: Provides an extensive selection covering all available hearing aid styles, from traditional BTEs and popular RICs to discreet ITEs, ITCs, CICs, and truly invisible IICs.³ Patients can choose from a wide array of manufacturers, technology levels to suit different budgets and needs, and various colours.³ The core of the private offering is personalisation; fittings are based on detailed assessments that consider not just the hearing loss but also the patient's lifestyle, communication goals, and aesthetic preferences, leading to a solution tailored to the individual.¹

This extensive choice available in the private sector is a key advantage because it allows hearing solutions to be closely matched to an individual's way of life.² For instance, someone working in noisy environments might prioritise advanced noise reduction, while a professional seeking discretion might opt for an invisible style.¹ This ability to align the hearing aid with both functional needs and personal preferences can significantly enhance user satisfaction and encourage consistent use of the devices.¹⁶

Aftercare & Ongoing Support

• NHS: Provides essential aftercare free of charge, including follow-up appointments as needed, replacement batteries, tubing, repairs, and eventual replacement of the aids.¹ However, the structure and frequency of this support may be basic, and accessing non-urgent review appointments or adjustments might involve waiting times.⁴ Some areas may offer convenient drop-in clinics for basic maintenance.¹⁰

• Private: Aftercare is typically a core component of the purchased package, often covering the lifespan of the hearing aids or a significant period like 3-5 years.¹ These packages commonly include regular check-ups (e.g., every six months), ongoing fine-tuning and adjustments as hearing needs evolve, professional cleaning and servicing, free batteries (for non-rechargeable models), extended warranties, and sometimes additional services like complimentary ear wax removal.⁴ Access to this support is generally quicker and more readily available than through the NHS, offering a more attentive and personalised service.² Continuity of care, seeing the same audiologist throughout the journey, is often a feature of private care, fostering a stronger patient-provider relationship.²⁰ Explore Hearco's commitment to ongoing support on our Aftercare page (https://www.hearco.co.uk/hearing-aftercare).

While the NHS ensures basic maintenance needs are met without cost, the comprehensive, structured, and proactive aftercare typically offered by private providers represents a significant difference. This ongoing support is crucial for ensuring hearing aids continue to function optimally, are programmed correctly as hearing changes over time, and ultimately contribute to long-term user success and satisfaction with their hearing solution.

At-a-Glance: NHS vs Private Hearing Aids in the UK

Why Do People Choose Private Hearing Care? Key Motivations

Based on the detailed comparison, several key factors consistently motivate individuals in the UK to choose the private hearing care route over the NHS pathway:

• Faster Access: The desire to bypass potentially long NHS waiting lists and receive assessment and treatment much more quickly is a primary driver. This allows individuals to address their hearing loss without significant delay.¹

• Advanced Technology: Access to the latest hearing aid features is a major draw. This includes superior performance in noisy environments (a common complaint with basic aids), enhanced speech clarity, and convenience features like rechargeability and seamless Bluetooth streaming to phones and other devices.¹

• Wider Choice & Discretion: The ability to select from a full range of styles, including cosmetically appealing invisible or very small devices, is important for many users. This allows them to choose an aid that fits their aesthetic preferences and lifestyle needs, rather than being limited to standard NHS models.¹

• Personalised Service: Many individuals value a more bespoke approach, including longer, more in-depth consultations, fittings meticulously tailored to their unique hearing profile and daily activities, and the potential for continuity of care with the same audiologist.¹

• Comprehensive Aftercare: The peace of mind offered by inclusive aftercare packages – covering regular check-ups, adjustments, servicing, and extended warranties – is a significant factor for those investing in their hearing health.¹

It's also apparent that some individuals explore private options after finding their NHS hearing aids didn't fully meet their expectations, whether due to technological limitations, comfort issues, effectiveness in certain situations, or the level of service received.¹⁶ For these users, private care represents a pathway to potentially achieve the hearing improvements they initially sought. Choosing a provider like Hearco aligns with these motivations, offering the speed, technology, choice, and personalised support many are looking for.

Building Trust: What to Look For in a UK Private Hearing Provider

Choosing a private hearing care provider involves placing trust in their expertise and making a significant financial investment.² Fortunately, the UK has structures in place to ensure quality and professionalism. When selecting a private provider, look for these key trust signals:

• HCPC Registration: This is paramount. Hearing Aid Dispensers (HADs) practicing privately in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This registration confirms they meet stringent standards for training, professional skills, and ethical conduct. It is illegal to dispense hearing aids privately without HCPC registration.⁴⁰ You should verify that your audiologist is HCPC registered; Hearco's audiologists meet this essential requirement.⁴⁰

• Professional Body Membership: Membership in recognised professional bodies signifies a commitment to ongoing learning and adherence to high standards. The British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA) is the leading body for the independent private sector, with members following a code of conduct.⁴⁰ Other reputable bodies include the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) and the British Society of Audiology (BSA).⁵⁹ Affiliation with these organisations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.

• Qualified and Experienced Audiologists: Ensure the clinic employs fully qualified audiologists with experience in assessing hearing loss and fitting modern hearing aids.²¹

• Transparency: Reputable providers are open about their services, the technology they offer, pricing structures, and exactly what is included in their care packages.¹⁴ Information should be clear and easy to understand.

• Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Look for feedback from previous patients. Positive reviews and testimonials provide valuable social proof of the clinic's service quality and patient satisfaction.¹⁵ Hearco encourages prospective clients to view feedback from existing patients.

• Trial Periods and Guarantees: Many private providers offer a trial period (e.g., 60 days) allowing you to test the hearing aids in your own environment with a money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied.²⁰ Comprehensive warranties (e.g., 3-5 years) on the devices are also standard.⁴ These policies significantly reduce the risk of investment.

• Independent Status (if applicable): Choosing an independent practice may offer the advantage of unbiased advice across all available hearing aid brands and technologies, as they are less likely to have specific ties to manufacturers.¹⁶

The existence of regulatory bodies like the HCPC and professional associations like BSHAA provides assurance. These organisations establish and uphold standards, ensuring that patients choosing reputable private providers receive care that is both ethical and competent. This framework helps counter concerns about potential quality variations or overly commercial approaches sometimes associated with the private sector.²

Making Your Informed Decision

Ultimately, there is no single "best" choice between NHS and private hearing aids that applies to everyone.¹ The right decision is deeply personal and hinges on your individual priorities, circumstances, and what you value most in your hearing care journey.

To guide your decision, consider these key questions:

• What is your budget? Is the free nature of the NHS service the most critical factor, or are you able and willing to invest in a private solution, potentially utilising available payment plans? ²

• How urgently do you need hearing aids? Are you comfortable with potential NHS waiting times, or is prompt assessment and fitting a priority? ¹

• What are your technology needs? Will basic digital amplification suffice, or would you benefit significantly from advanced features like superior noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, or rechargeability? ¹

• What is your lifestyle? Are you frequently in challenging listening environments? Is the cosmetic appearance and discretion of the hearing aid important to you? ¹

• What level of service do you prefer? Are you content with a standardised NHS approach, or do you seek a highly personalised service with dedicated, ongoing support and continuity of care? ¹

If priorities such as rapid access to care, the most advanced hearing technology available, the widest possible choice of styles (including invisible options), and a deeply personalised service with comprehensive long-term support rank highly for you, then exploring the private hearing care route with a trusted provider like Hearco is a logical and worthwhile step.

Your Next Steps with Hearco

At Hearco, we understand that choosing the right hearing care path is a significant decision. We are here to be your partner in achieving better hearing through expert, patient-focused private care.

The journey to improved hearing starts with understanding your unique situation. We recommend beginning with a comprehensive hearing assessment. This allows our qualified audiologists to accurately determine the nature and degree of your hearing loss and discuss your specific needs and lifestyle in detail. Many private clinics offer initial hearing tests or screenings free of charge.¹ Find out more about our assessments on the Hearco Hearing Test page (https://www.hearco.co.uk/hearing-test).

Following your assessment, we can guide you through the latest private hearing aid solutions available from leading manufacturers. We will help you select the technology level and style that best suits your hearing needs, preferences, and budget. Explore the possibilities on our Hearing Aids page (https://www.hearco.co.uk/hearing-aids).

Our commitment to you extends far beyond the initial fitting. We provide comprehensive ongoing aftercare to ensure you continue to get the maximum benefit from your hearing aids for years to come. Learn about our support services on our Aftercare page (https://www.hearco.co.uk/hearing-aftercare).

Ready to take the first step towards better hearing? Book now: www.hearco.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are private hearing aids better than NHS hearing aids?

The term "better" is subjective and depends on what aspects are most important to the individual.³ Private hearing aids generally offer more advanced technology, which often translates to better performance in challenging listening environments like noisy restaurants.¹ They also provide a much wider choice of styles, including invisible options, allow for faster access to treatment, and typically come with more personalised service and comprehensive aftercare packages.¹ However, NHS hearing aids are a reliable and entirely free option, providing good quality digital technology that is suitable and beneficial for many people.¹³ The best choice involves balancing your personal budget, lifestyle requirements, how quickly you need help, and your desire for the latest technology versus a functional, cost-free solution.

Q2: Can you get invisible hearing aids on the NHS?

Generally, the answer is no.¹ The NHS predominantly supplies Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models.¹ While modern BTE aids are smaller and more discreet than older versions, truly invisible styles that fit deep within the ear canal, such as Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) or Completely-in-Canal (CIC), are typically only available through private hearing care providers like Hearco.¹

Q3: How much do private hearing aids cost in the UK?

The cost of private hearing aids in the UK varies widely.³ Prices depend heavily on the level of technology, specific features, the brand, and the provider. You might find entry-level digital aids starting from around £400-£800 per device, while mid-range options could be £1000-£1500 per aid, and premium, top-of-the-line models with the most advanced features can cost £1500 to £3,500 or more per aid.⁶ The average cost for a pair is often estimated to be around £3,000.¹⁴ It's important to note that this price usually includes a package encompassing the assessment, fitting, warranty, and aftercare. Many providers offer payment plans to help spread the cost.³ A personalised quote following a hearing assessment is the best way to understand the specific costs involved.

Q4: Do I need a GP referral to get private hearing aids?

No, a GP referral is not required to access private hearing care in the UK.¹ You can contact a private audiologist or clinic, such as Hearco, directly to book a hearing assessment and consultation at your convenience. The requirement for a GP referral only applies to the NHS pathway.

Q5: How long do private hearing aids last?

The typical lifespan of modern hearing aids is generally between 3 to 7 years, although some may last longer.²⁰ Several factors influence longevity, including the specific model and its build quality, how well they are maintained and cleaned, the environment in which they are used, and the pace of technological advancement.³³ Private hearing aids often come with warranties ranging from 3 to 5 years.⁴ Many users choose to upgrade their hearing aids every 3 to 5 years to take advantage of newer, improved technology.³³

Works cited

1. NHS vs private hearing aids - angli-EAR Hearing, accessed April 17, 2025, https://angliearhearing.co.uk/advice/nhs-vs-private-hearing-aids

2. Private Hearing Aids vs. NHS Hearing Aids: Which Option is Right for You?, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.hearingandvision.co.uk/post/private-hearing-aids-vs-nhs-hearing-aids-which-option-is-right-for-you?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=blog.post-promoter&utm_campaign=12019a84-ba33-4917-81da-c2ef626031f2

3. NHS Hearing Aids vs Private Hearing Aids | Boots Hearingcare, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.bootshearingcare.com/lifestyle/nhs-vs-private-hearing-aids/

4. NHS vs private hearing aids: Which ones to choose? | THCP, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.thcp.co.uk/articles/nhs-hearing-aids-vs-private-hearing-aids

5. Hearing Aids NHS or Private | What is the Difference?, accessed April 17, 2025, https://onlinehearingcare.co.uk/articles/nhs-vs-private-hearing-aids/

6. Hearing aids and implants - NHS, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hearing-aids-and-implants/

7. Why urgent action is needed on deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss across the UK - RNID, accessed April 17, 2025, https://rnid.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Hearing-Matters-Report.pdf

8. How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost?, accessed April 17, 2025, https://hearingexpertwirral.co.uk/how-much-do-hearing-aids-cost/

9. How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost in the UK? A Look at Pricing, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.regainhearing.co.uk/blog/how-much-do-hearing-aids-cost/

10. A Smart-Shopper's Guide to Hearing Aids in the UK, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.hearingtracker.com/resources/a-smart-shoppers-guide-to-hearing-aids-in-the-uk

11. NHS vs private hearing aids: What's the difference? | Harley Street, accessed April 17, 2025, https://harleysthearing.co.uk/2024/05/01/nhs-vs-private-hearing-aids-whats-the-difference/

12. What to do if you can't get an NHS Audiology appointment? - Interhearing, accessed April 17, 2025, https://interhearing.com/news/nhs-audiology-appointment/

13. Private hearing aids vs NHS hearing aids: what's the difference? - EarPros.com, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.earpros.com/uk/blog/hearing-aids-nhs-or-private-difference

14. rnid.org.uk, accessed April 17, 2025, https://rnid.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Getting-hearing-aids-leaflet.pdf

15. Private Hearing Aids or NHS? Advice From An Audiologist! - Expert ..., accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.kmhearingsolutions.co.uk/blog/private-hearing-aids-vs-nhs-which-is-best-for-you

16. Private Hearing Aids vs NHS Hearing Aids | Hearing Aid UK, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.hearingaid.org.uk/hearing-aid-advice/private-hearing-aids-vs-nhs-hearing-aids

17. NHS Hearing Aids | NHS Services | Specsavers UK, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing/hearing-aids/nhs-hearing-aids

18. What are the different types of hearing aids? | Specsavers UK, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing/hearing-aids/types-of-hearing-aids

19. Frequently Asked Questions - Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/departments/audiology/faqs/

20. NHS Hearing Aids UK & Upgrades, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.hearingaid.org.uk/hearing-aids/nhs-hearing-aids-uk-upgrades

21. Audiology - Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale (HMR) Community - Northern Care Alliance, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/hmr-audiology

22. Audiology - Oldham Community - Northern Care Alliance, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/oldham-audiology

23. BAA Board Condemns Upselling Practices by some NHS Hearing Aid Providers, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.baaudiology.org/baa-board-condemns-upselling-practices-by-some-nhs-hearing-aid-providers/

24. Advice on Private vs NHS and do I really need 20 channels? : r/HearingAids - Reddit, accessed April 17, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/HearingAids/comments/13ma35t/advice_on_private_vs_nhs_and_do_i_really_need_20/

25. Private Hearing Aids vs NHS Hearing Aids: What's the Difference?, access