BIHIMA’s 2024/25 audiologist survey report reveals urgent need for reform in hearing care
The BIHIMA audiologist survey is a comprehensive sweep of the profession in the UK, exploring the key challenges facing hearing care professionals, the opportunities for improvement, and giving a measure of the impact of issues such as stigma, waiting lists, and ear wax removal across both the NHS and private sectors.
The British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA) has released a report detailing the findings from its most comprehensive annual audiologist survey to date, offering an unflinching look at the mounting challenges facing the UK’s hearing care sector.
With significantly increased participation from NHS professionals alongside those in private practice, the 2025 survey provides the clearest picture yet of a profession under pressure. Key concerns include escalating NHS waiting times, staffing shortages, limited access to care, and the unresolved national issue of ear wax removal.
“Something needs to change,” says UK industry leader.
“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,” said Paul Surridge, Chairman of BIHIMA.
Paul Surridge, Chairman of BIHIMA Photo: PW
“We must act decisively and collectively: to expand access, to standardise service quality, and to elevate the profession through education, investment, and public awareness. We know that that demand is far higher than our current service levels can meet and something needs to change if 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:
Access and reform: A large majority of respondents called for national self-referral options, citing GP gatekeeping as a barrier to timely care. Many advocated for more community clinics, a voucher scheme to ease access to private care, and a return to free, regulated ear wax removal in primary care settings.
Stigma and messaging: Stigma remains a major hurdle. Audiologists emphasised the need to retire terms like ‘invisible hearing aids’ and shift the language we use to normalise and destigmatise hearing loss and the use of devices.
Workforce strain: Widespread concern was voiced over staffing shortfalls, pay disparities, and burnout – particularly within the NHS. Many called for better training pathways, especially in tinnitus care, and stronger collaboration between sectors.
Dementia and hearing loss: While the link between hearing loss and dementia is gaining attention, respondents warned against fear-based messaging. The consensus was clear: conversations must be evidence-led, balanced, and focused on promoting hearing health without resorting to misinformation.
Top patient concerns: Ear wax build-up and difficulty hearing in background noise topped the list of patient complaints.
BIHIMA is urging stakeholders – from healthcare leaders to policymakers and manufacturers – to engage with the profession’s concerns and help co-create a more resilient, accessible, and stigma-free hearing care system. For a deeper discussion on the survey behind this report, read here. READ the full report here.
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