Age Related Hearing Loss

Lancashire and South Cumbria Self Referral 

People aged 50+ living in Lancashire and South Cumbria who are having problems with their hearing are now being given the option to self-refer into NHS audiology AQP providers services if they are eligible. 

Previously you would have to have an appointment with your GP to be referred to these services. However, this new option will make it easier for you, by expanding the ways in which you can access the service and meaning that you are able to bypass the need to visit your GP practice. 

You can check whether you are eligible to self-refer by answering a few questions about your hearing problem. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will be able to self-refer to local audiology services for a hearing assessment. 

You should always see a GP first if: 

• You have sudden or rapid hearing loss, persistent pain or vertigo.
• You have tinnitus in one or both ears lasting for more than five minutes at a time, or that is in time with your heartbeat/pulse, or that is severe enough to disturb your sleep.

Once the form has been completed, you can then contact their provider of choice by telephone to make an appointment. You may also contact providers for help with completing the form.  

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Planned Care Team via lscicb-bl.plannedcareteam@nhs.net