Hearing services provider Australian Hearing has launched a free telephone hearing test, which is thought to be the most advanced in the world.
People concerned about hearing loss can access the test, known as Telscreen II, by calling a toll-free telephone number and registering their responses to a series of sounds played down the phone.
“The telephone hearing test that forms Telscreen II is the most advanced telephone hearing test in the world and a credit to Australia’s ability to stay at the forefront of international research,” said the Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig.
Telscreen II was developed by National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), the research firm of Australian Hearing. NAL re-engineered Telscreen I, Australian Hearing’s previous hearing test, to produce the new test.
“Telscreen II uses advanced psychoacoustic principles so that it can more accurately distinguish between a hearing-impaired person and a person with good hearing,” NAL’s director of research, Prof Harvey Dillon said.
According to Senator Ludwig, the test is of particular use to elderly people living in remote and rural areas, who don't have access to such services locally.
“Being able to take a test in the privacy of your own home at anytime, from anywhere in Australia, is an example of the Australian government responding to the needs of senior Australians and providing greater access to services for those who need it the most,” Senator Ludwig said.
People wishing to test their hearing are directed to call the toll-free number 1800 826 500 and follow the prompts.