The Co-Operative Pharmacy has pledged to provide free hearing tests at a number of their branches throughout the UK. The proposal is a part of a new audiology service being trialled in selected branches in the UK as an effort to help those with hearing problems get the treatment they need.

Many UK patients do not notice any deterioration in their hearing and it is hoped that by having these sessions made available that the Co-Operative Pharmacy can help identify who may need a hearing aid.

If after taking part in the free hearing test that the patient is identified as having hearing difficulties then they will then be offered advice on purchasing a hearing aid, either privately or being referred to a GP if they wish to get one via the National Health Service.

For patients opting to purchase privately they will be able to have their hearing aid fitted within 3 weeks and free follow up appointments to make sure everything is fine at their pharmacy.

The Co-Operative aims to have the service in 80 of its branches nationwide with fully qualified audiologists available twice a month for consultations by September 2009.

Via EPR Network
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