Hearing Test | Hearing Ambassadors

A Good Audiologist is the Key to Successful Hearing – But What Makes a Good Audiologist?

When it comes to hearing well, having the right audiologist by your side can make all the difference. Whether you’re getting hearing aids for the first time, managing long-term hearing loss, or just starting to notice a change, your relationship with your audiologist plays a central role in how confident, supported, and successful you feel.

But what does make a good audiologist? And how do you know you’ve found one?

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1. They Listen – Really Listen

A good audiologist doesn’t just test your hearing; they listen to your story. They take time to understand your lifestyle, your concerns, and how hearing loss is affecting you. They’ll ask about the noisy cafés, the quiet phone calls, the frustration, the fatigue — and tailor their support accordingly.

2. They Explain Clearly

The world of audiograms, decibels, and frequency ranges can be confusing. A good audiologist explains things in plain language, checks that you’ve understood, and makes sure you feel informed — not overwhelmed. You should never feel rushed or left with unanswered questions.

3. They’re Patient and Person-Centred

Hearing loss is personal, emotional, and sometimes unpredictable. A good audiologist gives you time to adjust, try things out, and make decisions at your own pace. They recognise that hearing well isn’t just about devices — it’s about confidence, connection, and dignity.

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4. They Offer Realistic Expectations and Honest Advice

Not every hearing solution works straight away. A good audiologist manages expectations gently and honestly — they’ll let you know what to expect, when to ask for adjustments, and when to persevere or try something new. They never push unnecessary products.

5. They Provide Ongoing Support

The first fitting is just the start. A good audiologist checks in, encourages follow-up visits, and supports you through your hearing journey. They understand that your needs may change over time, and they’re ready to help — not just at the beginning, but throughout.

6. They Work Collaboratively

A good audiologist works with other professionals if needed — your GP, ENT specialist, or workplace. They’re part of your support team, and they don’t hesitate to refer you on if something is outside their scope. They want the best outcome for you.

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So, What Should You Do If You’re Not Happy?

If you’re not getting the support you need, it’s OK to speak up. You can ask for a second opinion, request a different audiologist, or even change providers. You deserve to feel heard and respected.

Whether your hearing care is through the NHS or a private clinic, you should feel confident in your audiologist’s care and comfortable in the process.

Your hearing is too important to settle for anything less.

Have you had a great (or not-so-great) experience with an audiologist? We’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment or message us directly.

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The NHS website has some great information about what audiologists do.

#HearingHealth #Audiologist #HearingSupport #HearingLoss #GoodCommunication #HearingAmbassadors

What to Do if You’re Not Getting the Hearing Support You Need

We recently received a heartfelt message from one of our readers that really resonated — and we suspect it might with you too.

“While browsing the web yesterday I came across your very helpful site. I’m not sure how I didn’t pick it up sooner – but it was a very timely event as I’m feeling really quite down about my hearing. I’ll be 81 in a few days’ time…”

This gentleman’s story spans six decades of living with hearing loss — a journey marked by persistence, frustration, and resilience. Diagnosed in his twenties with significant hearing loss in one ear, he was told by hospital audiology that “it’s not something we can correct.” He was eventually given hearing aids, but support remained minimal.

Many years later, another hearing test showed that his other ear now had almost no hearing. Yet again, a consultant’s letter advised him to simply “carry on” with hearing aids — with no further investigation.

Fortunately, a referral to a specialist centre changed everything. There, doctors identified an acoustic schwannoma, a type of benign tumour, and provided targeted treatment and new hearing technology (BiCROS aids). For the first time in decades, he felt his hearing needs were properly understood — and his previously “poor” ear became the better one.

Photo by Anthony Camerlo on Unsplash

Now in his early 80s, he’s once again facing difficulties. Both sets of hearing aids — NHS and private — have let him down, and he fears his remaining hearing may be declining. Another specialist appointment is on the horizon, and he’s understandably anxious and hoping for answers.

So what can you do if you feel you’re not getting the right support for your hearing?

Sadly, this story is not unique. Many people are told to simply “get on with it” — that hearing loss is inevitable, not treatable, or not worth further investigation. But here’s the truth:

You are entitled to proper care and attention — at any age.

Here are some steps you can take if you feel you’re not being listened to or supported:

1. Trust your instincts

If you feel something isn’t right — a sudden drop in hearing, one-sided loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or hearing aids no longer helping — don’t ignore it. Keep a simple log of your concerns to share with your GP or audiologist.

2. Ask for a second opinion

If your first consultation leaves you with more questions than answers, ask to be referred elsewhere — ideally to a specialist ENT or audiology centre. You have the right to be heard, quite literally.

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3. Persist with your GP

Some conditions, like acoustic neuromas (schwannomas), can go undetected unless someone takes the time to investigate further. If your GP listens and takes action — as in the case above — it can make all the difference.

4. Check your hearing aids

If you suspect your hearing aids are no longer working well, request a reassessment. You may need reprogramming, servicing, or new technology. If you have aids from both NHS and private providers, don’t be afraid to compare and ask questions.

5. Reach out to others

You are not alone. Connecting with charities, support groups, or local hearing clinics can provide emotional support, practical tips, and sometimes even advocacy help.

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We’re so grateful to our reader for sharing his story — and we wish him the very best at his upcoming appointment.

Have you ever felt let down by the hearing care system? What did you do about it?
We’d love to hear your experience — and any advice you’d give others in a similar situation. Let’s learn from each other and help make sure no one is left to struggle alone.

Please click here to share your story

Hear are some groups that might help you:

RNID

Hearing Loss Association of America