Hearing Health: Assistance for adults 21 years and over after a hearing loss and/or ear disorder has been identified
Where can I go for help after I have been diagnosed with a hearing problem?
When a hearing problem is confirmed by diagnostic audiology there are many things to be considered including intervention options (hearing aids, assistive listening devices; medical treatment, surgical intervention) and habilitation programs (lip reading, active listening, signing). You may also need support and information to assist in making these decisions.
Hearing service providers, support groups and advocacy organisations will be able to assist you at this time. Your diagnostic audiology service provider will be able to assist you in making recommendations for the most appropriate services and agencies to suit your needs.
The following services may be helpful while considering your options:
-
Australian Hearing provides hearing and communication improvement programs including hearing aid fitting, for eligible adults.
-
Ear Nose and Throat Specialists (ENTs) will assist in considering medical and surgical options. See your GP for referral.
Private Audiologists Check the Yellow Pages for local centres or contact the Audiological Society of Australia -
Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre offers services to those who are considering, or who have received, cochlear implants.
The following may be of assistance with work issues such as training or retraining:
-
Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service provides vocational rehabilitation, communication assessment, literacy assessment and workplace assessment for eligible people with communication and hearing disorders. For more information go to
-
TAFE NSW employs specialist Teacher Consultants to ensure that people with a disability have equal access to education and training at TAFE NSW campuses.
-
Additional information on disability programs and services in public education and training in NSW, with links to employment and related disability services
At this time you may also be interested in obtaining information from groups or agencies established to support people with hearing problems.
Healthcare providers may be able to recommend support groups, advocacy bodies or associations relevant to your circumstances.
These websites may also be useful in providing you with information about groups relevant to your circumstances.
This web page is managed and authorised by Primary Health & Community Partnerships of the NSW Department of Health. Last updated: 17 March, 2009