The British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA) has released its most comprehensive annual audiologist survey to date, revealing growing challenges across the United Kingdom’s hearing care sector.
With significantly increased participation from NHS professionals alongside those in private practice, the 2025 report provides the clearest picture yet of a profession under pressure. Key concerns include long NHS waiting times, staffing shortages, limited access to care, and the unresolved national issue of ear wax removal.
“This year’s survey has brought into focus the growing burden our audiology professionals carry and the disconnect between what they’re able to provide and what patients truly need”
–Paul Surridge, Chairman of BIHIMA
“We must act decisively and collectively: to expand access, to standardize service quality, and to elevate the profession through education, investment, and public awareness,” said BIHIMA Chairman, Paul Surridge.
“We know that that demand is far higher than our current service levels can meet and something needs to change is we are able to improve conditions for patients and professionals alike. Hearing health is connected to every aspect of our overall health, so this is not a challenge we can afford to ignore. We’re talking about people’s quality of life, and we all have a stake in that.”
Key Findings from the 2025 Survey:
Access and reform:
A large majority of respondents advocated for national self-referral options, citing general practitioner (GP) gatekeeping as a barrier to timely care. There was strong support for more community-based clinics, a voucher scheme to improve access to private care, and the reinstatement of free, regulated ear wax removal in primary care.
Stigma and messaging:
Stigma continues to be a major barrier to care. Audiologists emphasized the need to eliminate terms like “invisible hearing aids” and shift toward language that normalizes and destigmatizes hearing loss and the use of hearing devices.
Workforce strain:
Respondents reported widespread concern over staffing shortages, pay disparities, and burnout—especially within the NHS. Many called for better training pathways, particularly in tinnitus care, and closer collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Dementia and hearing loss:
Although awareness of the connection between hearing loss and dementia is growing, audiologists cautioned against fear-based messaging. Respondents stressed the importance of balanced, evidence-led communication that promotes hearing health without contributing to anxiety or misinformation.
Top patient concerns:
The most frequently reported patient complaints were ear wax buildup and difficulty hearing in background noise.
BIHIMA is calling on healthcare leaders, policymakers, and manufacturers to engage with the findings and help co-create a hearing care system that is more resilient, accessible, and free from stigma.
- To access the full survey report, visit BIHIMA’s website
BIHIMA surveyed 101 audiologists across the NHS and private sector in the UK and ROI. The respondent pool included 30% NHS audiologists, 59% private practice and 11% working in a combination of both.
The British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA) represents the leading hearing technology manufacturers in the UK and Ireland. BIHIMA works in partnership with health professionals, regulators, and consumer groups to promote hearing health and the uptake of life-changing hearing instruments.
