Not the only opticians out there!

Are they doing NHS audio tests or private?

If private I don't see it as a problem as long as the test is done by a qualified audiologist who is able to refer to the hospital like the opticians do if they discover something that needs specialist treatment.

It give patients a choice, just the same as you'd have with a health problem.

DH has had excellent service from Boots for his severe high frequency hearing loss. His initial hearing test and the follow-ups, are free. Any problems, and he phones and is given a free appointment as soon as possible.
Of course we had to pay for the aids themselves, but were given a choice and different prices for each type. No, the audiologist did not recommend the most expensive. The aids themselves are very discreet and comfortable. Plus, I get points on my Boots card!
And no, we do not have shares in Boots!

Think I'd want an impartial agency advising me if I needed a hearing aid!

I wasn't aware they'd taken over doing hearing tests for the NHS, they, like Boots, offer hearing tests and you privately pay for your hearing aids, batteries etc. I'm not sure whether there's a charge for the test and follow-ups.

I still have my hearing test reviews and batteries via the NHS, and have regular appointments because of my inherited condition -and it's a great service too!

durhamjen I totally agree with you for once in my life!

I do not like the fact that they appear to have taken over hearing tests for the NHS. Insidious privatisation.

Apologise for my hyperbole, what I meant was the item under 'Latest from Gransnet...'Grannyhaggis....etc' and the sponsored discussion. Also until recently there have been several proper adverts from them on this site. It just seemed to me a tad heavy handed...and yes I should just ignore them.

Advertising keeps the site free for users. Try to ignore it or use an ad blocker and just enjoy the threads.

They presume the adverts and sponsored questions help pay for Gransnet; what would you suggest as an alternative HildaW?

What blanket coverage? Do you mean adverts, Hilda?

Perhaps they sponsor the site?

Really, it's quite a while since I saw it mentioned and others were mentioned on the same thread.