Hearing tests are often recommended every 1–2 years, particularly if you’re over 50 or work in a noisy environment. Regular assessments may help monitor your hearing health over time. If you notice changes in your hearing, such as difficulty understanding conversations or ringing in your ears, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor about scheduling a test sooner.

Hearing tests are designed to assess a range of hearing concerns and provide a detailed understanding of your hearing ability. For certain conditions, such as auditory processing issues or specific inner ear disorders, additional or more specialised tests may be recommended. Your audiologist can guide you on what further evaluations might be needed.

Most hearing tests take approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on the complexity and the types of assessments involved. If more detailed evaluations or additional tests are required, the duration may vary. Your audiologist will explain the process and ensure the time is used efficiently to review your hearing health.

It’s generally a good idea to postpone a hearing test if you’re experiencing a cold, ear infection, or any congestion that might temporarily affect your hearing. These conditions could interfere with the results and make it harder to get an accurate assessment. Rescheduling ensures your test provides reliable and meaningful insights.

In most cases, you may not need a referral to book a hearing test. However, certain types of tests or evaluations might require a referral for Medicare rebates or to access specific services. It’s always a good idea to check with your audiologist or healthcare provider beforehand to confirm what’s required.

For your hearing test appointment, bring your Medicare card, any recent medical history related to your ears or hearing, and, if needed, a referral letter from your doctor. If you’ve used hearing aids or had previous hearing tests, bringing those records can also be helpful for a more comprehensive review.

Hearing aids may assist with many types of hearing loss by amplifying sounds to improve clarity. However, their suitability can depend on the nature and cause of the hearing loss. For some conditions, other treatments or management strategies might be suggested. Your audiologist can provide personalised recommendations based on your assessment.

In most cases, results from your hearing test are available immediately after the assessment. Your audiologist will take the time to discuss the findings, explain what they mean, and provide guidance on any next steps. If further testing is required, they will outline what might be involved.

Not at all! Hearing tests are entirely non-invasive and pain-free. They typically involve listening to sounds or words through headphones and responding accordingly. The process is designed to be as comfortable as possible, ensuring you feel at ease throughout the assessment.