01 June 2021

NCHA member update – 1 June

This week:

• Covid-19: Audiology and Otology Guidance update
• Hearing aid sales data show mixed picture
• Other sector news

Covid-19: Audiology and Otology Guidance update

AIHHP, BAA, BSA and BSHAA have updated their joint Audiology and Otology Guidance during Covid-19. The update provides a more concise overview of how practices and practitioners can remain Covid secure while meeting a wider range of audiological needs as routine care is reinstated across the UK. They have also revised the risk assessment template in Appendix 1. Members are encouraged to read the new abridged guidance in full.

Hearing aid sales data show mixed picture

The latest BIHIMA data shows that hearing aid sales were down in Q1 2021, with 326,000 units sold, compared to over 450,000 in Q4 2020. The data reveals NHS sales were down by 23% on Q1 2020 (before the first lockdown) and down 30% on Q4 2020. Private sales performed better but were still down 7% and 19%, respectively. BHIMA said the data was "surprising due to the lockdown restrictions that ran throughout spring this year and increased Covid-19 cases and hospitalisations at the start of the year". Read more.

Other sector news

• John Hopkins researchers find no evidence of a change in incidence of sudden hearing loss in vaccinated population
• US lawmakers push for improved access to audiology services
• Understanding patient empowerment along the hearing health journey
• Current BSA projects from sound practice to celebrating rehabilitation in audiology
• New ototoxicity database planned
• Bose claims 'audiologist quality' for its OTC devices
• Gene research might lead to new treatment options for congenital hearing loss
• Click Hearing part of IDA's 'Shining a light on great practice'