Duncan and Todd launches Tympa hearing care service

The Scottish optometry business, Duncan and Todd Group, has launched an all-in-one hearing care appointment.

The new service, Hearsmart, features an all-in-one ear health check and ear wax removal using Tympa technology.

The optometry group first launched audiology services in 2018.

Seven branches of Duncan and Todd and 20 20 Opticians will offer the new service, through which trained ear care professionals use micro-suction to remove wax, a process shown on HD video for the patient to see.

Once wax has been removed, a hearing screening can then be performed and if a patient is found to be experiencing hearing loss, the ear care professional may then refer the patient to an audiologist.

Philip Kenny, head of audiology at Duncan and Todd Group, said: “Tympa technology brings together three different diagnostic and treatment systems into one hand-held portable system. It allows us to perform high-definition digital otoscopy, micro-suction wax removal and carry out a hearing screening.”

The new service has been launched in response to a “rapid growth” in demand for ear and hearing care services, the group said, suggesting that an approximately 11 million people in the UK have hearing loss. This makes it the second most common disability in the country.

Kenny explained: “Unfortunately, most people ignore the signs of hearing loss, which can show itself in a variety of different forms. Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. It often comes on gradually as we get older, but it can sometimes happen suddenly.”

Audiologists can offer advice on available treatment options to suit a patient’s individual needs and lifestyle.

“Much like a lens can be used to show how glasses can improve vision, hearing aids and wearable technology can show the benefits of using these to the patient. It really is vital we look after our hearing, just like we would our sight,” he said.