Arrive prepared. Know what to expect.

Useful items include:

• Previous hearing results or referral letters
• Medication list and relevant medical history
• Current hearing aids, earbuds or listening devices
• Examples of situations where hearing is difficult

For a child, bring a caregiver who knows the developmental history whenever possible.

• School or teacher feedback
• Previous therapy or assessment reports
• Examples of communication concerns
• Relevant medical or developmental history

Listening concerns need context across hearing, language, learning and attention.

• School or workplace examples
• Previous hearing, language or educational reports
• Completed questionnaires when requested
• A description of difficult listening environments

Try to describe the symptom pattern rather than only the word “dizzy”.

• Medication list
• Previous ENT, neurology or balance reports
• Symptom timeline and triggers
• Details of falls, near-falls or hearing changes

Recommendations begin with current hearing information and real-life listening needs.

• Current hearing results, where available
• Existing hearing aids and accessories
• Phone model and connectivity priorities
• Budget, handling and charging preferences

A blocked sensation does not always mean wax, so the ear is checked first.

• Relevant ear or surgical history
• Current pain, discharge or sudden hearing change
• Use of hearing aids or ear protection
• Previous difficult wax-removal experiences

Allow enough time to find the practice, complete any required information and settle before testing. Follow the confirmed appointment time and instructions sent by the practice.

Some speech-therapy rooms are upstairs and are not wheelchair accessible. Tell the team when booking if step-free access, mobility support or another accommodation is required.

A parent or guardian who knows the history should attend a child’s first assessment whenever possible. Ask before bringing siblings if supervision may be difficult during testing.

Your confirmation should state the planned appointment type. Ask the team how much time to allow, especially for comprehensive assessments, APD pathways or appointments involving several tests.

Not every appointment automatically includes the same written report. The purpose, fee and expected turnaround for documentation should be confirmed before or during the assessment.

Benefits and reimbursement depend on the patient’s plan. Ask which invoice, quote, motivation or clinical documentation can be supplied. The practice cannot guarantee payment by a medical aid.

Contact the practice as soon as possible when plans change. Late arrival may reduce the available clinical time or require rescheduling, depending on the appointment.

Results and recommendations should be explained in clear language. Write down questions and ask for clarification before leaving if part of the plan is uncertain.

Follow-up may involve therapy, hearing technology, another assessment, monitoring or referral to another healthcare professional. The next step depends on the findings.

The team must confirm that the required service, equipment, travel distance and environment are appropriate for a home or facility visit.

Provide the quietest practical room, stable seating, adequate lighting, a suitable table and access to power if requested.

Send the full address, parking or security instructions, contact person and any stairs, pets or access restrictions before the visit.