If loss of hearing is confirmed your doctor may refer you to your local ENT Consultant who will prescribe a basic model that fits behind the ear. However, do be prepared to wait as there can be lengthy delays at each stage of the process. Ultimately you will be provided with an NHS aid on free permanent loan.
A hearing aid from the NHS, will be on permanent loan, and therefore cannot be insured. If the hearing aid is destroyed through neglect or an accident, in some cases you will be made to reimburse part or the full cost of the damaged hearing aid.
Alternatively, many people choose to buy a hearing aid rather than get a free NHS one. Their reasons are often to do with speed, choice and convenience. It costs nothing to have your hearing assessed by a private hearing aid dispenser as most hearing aid companies provide hearing tests free of charge.
This route eliminates any waiting and can be in the comfort of your own home if you wish. You will also have a very wide choice of hearing aids including the latest technology in the most discrete of styles.