Apart from through the NHS, is there anywhere I could get my DS's hearing tested?

[mm22bys]

Hi,

We have concerns about our DS's hearing. He seems selective about when he responds to us, and he is playing up at school (he is 4 so has just started Reception).

I would like to get his hearing tested.

What is the quickest way to go about this?

I have an appointment with the NHS GP tomorrow to discuss our concerns re DS, but I do not want to wait for the NHS to do it's thing (DS2 had hearing concerns a year ago and we ended up going private after he failed his NHS test - just did not want to wait!).

Who do I approach? A private GP for a private referral? the Deaf Childrens Society?

Thanks in advance,

[whomovedmychocolate]

Your GP can refer you to a private clinic or there are a few high street hearing test services (generally within opticians). Yellow pages may be of service in finding one in your area.

[ivykaty44]

Go to the opticians, they often do hearing aswell as eyes.

[HRHMamazon]

was going to say specsavers too. but i am not sure if they will test children under 5 asthey are more difficult. i imagine they would just reffer you to teh hospital.

[whomovedmychocolate]

The waiting lists for children's hearing tests are very short anyway. Esp if you don't mind going a little bit further than your nearest hospital.

[mm22bys]

Thanks, I'll make some phone calls this morning!

[bigcar]

Hi mm

I know someone who took their ds here and was very happy with their service, despite the journey from London! I don't think the NDCS will recommend private audiologists but you could try posting on their parent place to see if anyone could suggest somewhere closer.

[mm22bys]

Thanks Bigcar.

As I suspected, there would be a long wait for even an initial NHS test (three months in my area )

I rang up NDCS, got a website of consultants, but I did ring up Chear as well, they are a fair way from London, but she did recommend the Portland, so I think I'll go down that route.

Thanks again,