Receive bulk billed hearing tests for seniors
TOOWOOMBA senior card holders will have access to Medicare rebatable or bulk-billed hearing checks following the opening of Doherty Hearing in the Westridge Medical Centre.
Owner and audiologist Dominic Doherty said his family-run, independent audiology clinic will offer the latest hearing solutions and technology. “We’re really excited to be opening a clinic in Toowoomba and look forward to building relationships with health care providers and residents across the region,” Mr Doherty said.
“Being an independent provider means we are not tied to a particular supplier, so we are able to choose the best possible hearing device for each individual, regardless of the manufacturer.”
The father-of-three has gained more than a decade of experience in audiology since graduating with a Masters of Audiological Studies from the University of Queensland.
“I also work closely with other medicos and allied health professionals to ensure my patients receive the highest quality care,” Mr Doherty said.
Doherty Hearing will specialise in adult hearing problems and will initially open three days a week.
“My father, Dr Michael Doherty, was a dentist in Toowoomba for over 30 years, so if I can achieve the same longevity with my audiology clinic, I’ll be doing well!” Mr Doherty said.
Mr Doherty said hearing starts to decline when you hit 50 years of age and can lead to isolation, depression and disengagement. “Communicating with someone who appears not to be listening due to hearing loss can be frustrating and isolating—no one likes feeling ignored,” he said.
“The good news is that hearing impairment can be easily identified and [with] a rehabilitation program initiated, relationships don’t need to be put at risk.”
Mr Doherty said there are three types of hearing aids—hearing aids worn behind the ear, hearing aids worn in the ear and hearing aids that sit in the drawer. “Compliance for hearing aids is often pretty poor, mainly because of management issues or poorly fitting devices — I refer to these hearing aids as ‘in the drawer’ hearing aids, because they are never worn,” Mr Doherty said. “Because I am able to offer my clients a bit more time I can make sure there is a positive outcome for the vast majority.” Technical advances are also offering more choice and better outcomes for the one in six Australians affected by hearing loss.
“Technology has come a long, long way,” Mr Dohery said.
“I read an article recently that said that 70 per cent of the population have trouble changing batteries, because they are so small.
“So what they have done now is make rechargeable hearing aids, which I think will be quite a big improvement for those with hearing aids — the technology is always improving.” Please contact Doherty Hearing on 1300 593 388 to schedule an appointment.