Hearing tests in Canterbury

Private hearing tests with Audika at Chaucer Hospital in Canterbury

When you attend a private hearing appointment at Chaucer Hospital, you benefit from a custom-built audiology suite with Audika (formerly Hidden Hearing). This modern, clinical environment is paired with the latest diagnostic equipment. This results in some of the highest quality diagnostic and hearing aid services in the region.

Hearing loss can occur gradually over time or appear suddenly, and early assessment is essential for effective management. We offer rapid access to appointments, often within just a few days, so you can get clear answers and expert guidance without long waiting times.

Chaucer Hospital is found in the historic city of Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the English county of Kent. Our patients come to us from local areas such as Faversham, Thanet, Herne Bay and Whitstable, as well as Deal, Wye, Ashford and Maidstone. Our expert consultants, world-class facilities and truly compassionate team also attract people from further afield, across Kent, the UK and even abroad.

Why might you need a hearing test?

A hearing test can reveal much more than just whether your hearing is 'good' or 'bad'. The results show exactly which frequencies or volumes you struggle to hear, helping to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Hearing tests are used to assess and diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:

• Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Earwax blockages
• Middle ear infections or fluid build up
• Balance-related issues connected to the inner ear

By detecting these issues early, hearing tests allow audiologists and ENT specialists to recommend the most suitable treatment, whether that involves hearing aids, earwax removal, or further medical investigation.

How often should you book a hearing test?

It’s recommended to book a hearing test if you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, such as difficulty following conversations, needing to turn the TV volume up higher, or frequently asking others to repeat themselves.

Routine tests are also advisable for people regularly exposed to loud noises at work, or for older adults, since hearing loss can gradually develop with age. Early testing ensures any issues are identified quickly, helping to prevent further deterioration and improving quality of life.

What happens during a hearing test at Chaucer Hospital, Canterbury?

A hearing test is a simple, non-invasive procedure that measures how well you hear different sounds and frequencies. It’s also known as an audiometry test. At Chaucer Hospital, your appointment will begin with a short consultation, where your audiologist discusses your symptoms, medical history, and any lifestyle factors that may affect your hearing.

They will then carry out a series of diagnostic tests to assess how sound travels through your ears and how well your auditory system processes it. This usually includes otoscopy (a visual check of the ear canal and eardrum), audiometry (testing hearing thresholds at various frequencies), and tympanometry (examining how well the eardrum moves).

Each test is quick and comfortable, and your audiologist will explain what they are doing at every stage. The entire appointment usually lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, and you’ll receive your results immediately afterwards. Based on your results, your audiologist may recommend treatment such as hearing aids or wax removal, or they might refer you onwards to an ENT consultant if further medical assessment is needed.

How much does a hearing test cost at Chaucer Hospital in Canterbury?

The cost of a private hearing test depends on the type of assessment required as well as the consultant you choose, and whether you need onward referral to another specialist. The more comprehensive the testing, likely the more expensive it will be.

Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, we can usually offer an upfront cost which you can then choose to pay in full or access one of our easy payment options.

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.

How to book a hearing test in Canterbury

To book a consultation for a hearing test with an audiologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.