Dear Gwen,
Whilst I am not a GP I am hard of hearing and have worn aids (both
NHS behind the ear and private in the ear) for the majority of my life.
Regardless of your particular query, I would strongly recommend a
private in the ear aid as, at least in my case, the difference is
immeasurable and the benefits far outweigh the costs.
I can use mine in conjunction with headphones quite easily as long as
there is an area of open space directly next to the aid (to prevent
whistling). I dont know how a stethoscope could be adapted to allow
for this. My understanding is that a stethoscope goes in the ear so
either way (ie either an in the ear of a behind the ear aid) you are
going to have to remove the aid to use the stethoscope unless it is
modified in some way. Would it not be possible to use a headphone
attachment with the stethosocope?
The only negative aspect I have found with a private aid is that
because it is that much smaller, they rarely have T settings (for use
with induction loops). T settings can be very helpful when using the
telephone - personally, I get round this by using e-mail where ever
possible! ;->
If you want and further information, please drop me a line.
________________________________________________
Nicola Ellis (Mrs.)
(Researcher)
E-Mail: [log in to unmask]
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