People aged 50 and over living in Lancashire and South Cumbria who are having problems with their hearing can now self‑refer to local NHS audiology services, if they are eligible.
Previously, patients needed an appointment with their GP in order to be referred. This new option makes access easier by allowing some patients to bypass the need to visit their GP practice.
You can check whether you are eligible to self‑refer by answering a few questions about your hearing (see the self‑referral form below). If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will be able to self‑refer to local audiology services for a hearing assessment.
When you should see a GP first
You should always see a GP first if:
- You have sudden or rapid hearing loss, persistent ear pain, or vertigo.
- You have tinnitus in one or both ears lasting for more than five minutes at a time, or that is in time with your heartbeat/pulse, or that is severe enough to disturb your sleep.
What to do next
- Complete the self‑referral form
- Use the form below to check if you are eligible.
- If you are eligible, you can self‑refer to local NHS audiology services for a hearing assessment.
- Contact your chosen provider
- Once the form has been completed, if you are eligible, you can contact your provider of choice (listed at the bottom of the form) by telephone to make an appointment.
- If you need help completing the form, you can contact the providers directly for assistance.
North Shore Surgery can also provide patients with a paper copy of the referral form or signpost you to your preferred provider.
For more information on how you can self‑refer, please visit the Specsavers website:
