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Studies have shown that hearing loss patients are at a higher risk of hospital readmission. Hard-of-hearing hospital patients who have trouble communicating with medical personnel are more likely to end up back in the hospital within 30 days compared to patients who do not have hearing loss. This can lead to increased healthcare costs and can be a burden on the patient’s overall health.
Researchers found that over a 10-year period, total costs accumulated to $22,434 for each patient. Regular hearing evaluations and the use of hearing aids can help improve communication and reduce the risk of hospital readmission. Hearing aids can be adjusted over a wide range of hearing loss and can be customized to fit the person’s needs.
Hearing Loss Patients Report Lower Care Levels When Left Untreated
Studies have found that hearing loss patients are less likely to receive adequate care. Anecdotal evidence from people with hearing loss has shown that some health professionals may maintain the belief that hearing loss is a normal part of aging and therefore not a priority for treatment. Additionally, assessment of hearing ability by patient report alone may result in failure to detect hearing loss, given the low correlation between perceived and measured hearing ability.
Self-reported hearing loss is associated with poorer perceived health care access, timeliness, satisfaction, and quality. This can lead to a lack of proper diagnosis and treatment, which can have negative consequences on the patient’s overall health and well-being. It is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of the barriers to hearing assessment and to provide adequate care for patients with hearing loss.
Better Care for Patients with Hearing Loss
Improving patient care for hearing loss can involve several strategies. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the barriers to hearing assessment and provide adequate care for patients with hearing loss. Regular hearing evaluations and the use of hearing aids can help improve communication and reduce the risk of hospital readmission. Hearing aids can be adjusted over a wide range of hearing loss and can be customized to fit the person’s needs.
Healthcare professionals should be aware of the latest advancements in hearing loss treatment, such as cochlear implants and other assistive devices. Patients should also be encouraged to seek treatment for hearing loss and not wait too long to investigate treatment options. By taking these steps, patient care for hearing loss can be improved, leading to better health outcomes and quality of life.
Have Your Hearing Checked Regularly
It is important to get your hearing checked regularly, especially as you get older. Hearing loss is a common problem, affecting one in three adults over the age of 60. Regular hearing evaluations can help diagnose medical conditions that may be causing hearing loss, such as ear infections or tumors. Early detection and treatment of these conditions can prevent further hearing loss and other complications.
Regular hearing tests can help detect changes in hearing and ensure that hearing aids or other treatments are adjusted accordingly. Those with milder hearing loss typically respond better to treatment than those with severe long-standing hearing losses who have not been treated. Early treatment can help prevent future issues and improve overall quality of life. Therefore, it is recommended to schedule regular hearing screenings with a hearing healthcare professional.