Guidelines for Otolaryngology referral prior to hearing aid fitting

At the request of Dr Brian Morton, Chair of AMACGP, the Australian Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (ASOHNS) has prepared a handy guide for GPs when determining if a patient would benefit from a hearing assessment and what contraindications would preclude the patient from being fitted with a hearing device.

The AMA wishes to remind GPs of their responsibilities when signing the Office of Hearing Services Voucher form and trusts these guidelines will assist GPs with their determinations. In completing the forms GPs are confirming they have personally examined the patient, are satisfied that the patient can be referred for a hearing assessment and, where appropriate rehabilitation services, and whether or not the patient has any contraindications to the fitting of a hearing device.