Patient Resources
Getting ready for your appointment
Everything you need to know before you visit us — how to prepare, what happens during your appointment, and answers to the questions we hear most often.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Before you arrive
Clear Ears
Ensure your ears are free from excessive wax before you arrive.
Previous Results
Bring any previous hearing test results, if available.
Current Hearing Aids
Bring your current hearing aids and accessories, if applicable.
Medications List
Bring a list of your current medications.
Medical Aid Card
Bring your medical aid card to your appointment.
Your Questions
Write down anything you'd like to discuss with your audiologist.
How long does the appointment take?
A comprehensive audiology appointment usually takes approximately 90 minutes, depending on your individual needs and the tests required.
How to Ensure Your Ears Are Clear of Wax
A quick note on earwax
Excess earwax can affect your hearing and may prevent your audiologist from accurately assessing your hearing. If a wax blockage or foreign object is identified, we may be unable to complete your assessment on the day — you'll be advised on the appropriate treatment or referral, and can reschedule once the ear canal is clear.
Why It Matters
Excess earwax can affect your hearing and may prevent your audiologist from accurately assessing it. If a blockage or foreign object is found, we may be unable to complete your assessment that day — you'll be advised on treatment or referral, and can reschedule once your ear canal is clear.
Avoid Cotton Buds
They often push wax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of impaction and damage to the ear.
What to Expect During Your Audiology Appointment
Comfortable, thorough, and personalised
Whether you're experiencing hearing difficulties, tinnitus, dizziness, or simply want to have your hearing checked, we're here to help. At Lifetime Audiology, we believe that understanding your hearing is the first step towards improving your quality of life.
1. Consultation & Case History
A detailed discussion about your hearing and overall ear health — your concerns, symptoms, tinnitus, dizziness, previous tests, noise exposure, medical history, and lifestyle.
2. Otoscopic Examination
A quick, safe and painless examination of your ears using an otoscope, checking for wax, infection, inflammation, or other visible abnormalities.
3. Comprehensive Hearing Assessment
A personalised set of painless, non-invasive tests — which may include tympanometry, pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and more — tailored to your symptoms.
4. Understanding Your Results
Your audiologist explains your hearing levels, the type and degree of any hearing loss, possible causes, and how it may affect your daily communication.
5. Personalised Recommendations
A tailored plan that may include hearing conservation advice, hearing aids, tinnitus management, monitoring, or referral to a specialist where appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions, answered
Is the hearing assessment painful?
No. Hearing assessments are completely painless and non-invasive. Your audiologist will explain each test before it is performed and ensure you are comfortable throughout the appointment.
How long does the appointment take?
A comprehensive audiology appointment usually takes approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on your individual needs and the tests required.
Will I receive my results on the same day?
Yes. Your audiologist will discuss your results with you immediately after your assessment, explain what they mean, and answer any questions you may have. If you require a report, there are additional costs.
What if I do need hearing aids?
If your assessment indicates that hearing aids would improve your hearing, your audiologist will explain the results, discuss the different technology levels available, and recommend solutions based on your hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, and there is never any obligation to proceed on the day of your appointment. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that you feel confident about.
What if I can't afford hearing aids?
We understand that hearing aids are an investment in your hearing and overall quality of life. Our team will discuss the available payment options with you and help you find a solution that suits your budget.
Are you contracted to medical aids?
Yes. Lifetime Audiology is contracted to most major South African medical schemes, allowing us to submit claims directly to your medical aid where your benefits permit. Medical aid benefits differ between schemes and plans, so before your appointment, we can verify your available benefits and advise you of any co-payments or shortfalls.
Will my medical aid pay for hearing aids?
Many South African medical schemes provide benefits towards hearing assessments and hearing aids. The amount covered depends on your specific medical aid plan and available benefits. Our team is happy to assist with benefit verification and, where applicable, submit the necessary claims and documentation on your behalf.
Do I need a referral from my GP or ENT?
No, you do not need a referral to book an appointment with an audiologist unless stated by your medical aid. However, if we identify a medical condition that requires further investigation or treatment, we may refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist or your GP.
Can I bring a family member or friend?
Absolutely. We encourage you to bring a family member or friend if you would like support during your appointment. They can also help provide valuable information about any hearing difficulties you've experienced.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring any previous hearing test results (if available), your current hearing aids and accessories (if applicable), a list of your medications, your medical aid card, and any questions or concerns you'd like to discuss.
Will I be pressured into buying hearing aids?
No. At Lifetime Audiology, we believe in providing honest, evidence-based recommendations. If hearing aids are appropriate, we'll explain your options and answer your questions, but the decision to proceed is entirely yours. Our priority is helping you make the best choice for your hearing health.
How often should I have my hearing tested?
Adults should consider having their hearing tested if they notice any changes in their hearing, experience tinnitus, have frequent exposure to loud noise, or have a family history of hearing loss. If you already wear hearing aids or have a diagnosed hearing loss, your audiologist may recommend regular follow-up assessments to monitor your hearing over time.