RNID: For deaf and hard of hearing people.

The first step

If you think you are having difficulty hearing, the first thing you need to do is visit your GP (family doctor). You may have a wax build-up or an infection that has temporarily affected your hearing and can be treated by your GP. You may need further medical investigation and treatment so it is a good idea to see your GP first, even if you are thinking of buying a hearing aid privately.

Private hearing aids

Buying a hearing aid privately does not prevent you from getting a free NHS hearing aid.

If you wish to buy a hearing aid privately from a registered dispenser, this does not prevent you from getting a free NHS hearing aid. However, the NHS cannot help you pay for a hearing aid privately and cannot provide repairs if anything goes wrong with it. NHS and private services are completely separate.

An elderly lady receiving a hearing consultation

By law all hearing aid dispensers must be qualified and registered with the Hearing Aid Council (external link, opens new browser window) (HAC).

The HAC regulates private dispensers' training and conduct and handles complaints. If you want to buy your own hearing aid, you should ask your GP or a friend to recommend a dispenser. Alternatively, the RNID Information Line can give you a list of hearing aid dispensers in your area, but cannot recommend one.

Why go private?

  • Private hearing aid dispensers offer more choice of hearing aid styles than the NHS.
  • You can get the very small styles that fit completely inside your ear. As these small hearing aids tend to need repairing more often than behind-the-ear aids, find out more about the pros and cons first.
  • Private hearing aid dispensers have very short waiting times.
  • A hearing aid dispenser will probably be able to see you within a week and you will get your hearing aid in about another two weeks.

The cost of a private hearing aid

  • A hearing aid costs between £300 and £2,500 to buy privately.
  • Digital aids tend to be more expensive than analogue models.
  • Medical insurance might cover part of the cost of a hearing aid, but this should be checked out with your insurer.
  • You will have to pay for repairs when the guarantee runs out and buy your own batteries.
  • You may also have to pay for future appointments.
  • You may want to insure your hearing aid against loss, theft or damage if you buy it privately.

Buying a hearing aid abroad

It might be tempting to buy a hearing aid abroad where they may appear to be cheaper.

RNID can't recommend any particular providers or models. We advise that you think carefully before buying abroad and check what the price covers and what help will be available once you get home.

Although the initial cost of the aid may be lower, you may need to see someone for adjustments or send the aid for repair – which could be expensive and inconvenient.

Read more in our buying a hearing aid factsheet.