An evaluation of a group follow-up scheme for new NHS hearing aid users.

Group follow-up of hearing aid patients has been implemented in a number of Audiology departments in the UK. This paper describes a retrospective analysis to investigate the efficiency and effectiveness of group follow-up sessions compared with individual follow-up sessions for new NHS hearing aid users in one such department. Questionnaires were sent to 98 patients; half had attended group follow-up (GF) and half had attended individual follow-up (IF) sessions. The questionnaire assessed their use of, self-rated performance and satisfaction with the hearing aid. The two follow-up systems were also analysed with respect to staff time, costs and attendance rates. Results showed a significant difference between groups for self-rated performance (GF better than IF) but none for hours of use or satisfaction. GF attendees were generally more positive about their hearing aid, required fewer additional follow-up appointments and reported more benefit in various listening situations. Although GF sessions cost less to run, there is a minor capital cost in setting them up. Attendance rates were significantly poorer for GF sessions but this study did not address the reasons for this finding. Overall, results suggest that GF is a cost effective method of following up typical new hearing aid users and may convey distinct advantages to patients that attend. However, a group follow-up session may be a less attractive option than individual follow-up for some new hearing aid users.