We believe in delivering the highest level of care.
BSHAA (British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists) is the esteemed professional body dedicated to championing and advancing the interests of the independent hearing aid profession, not only within the United Kingdom, encompassing Great Britain and Northern Ireland, but also across the global stage.
Our members are distinguished hearing care professionals who have undergone rigorous training and possess a wealth of expertise regarding the extensive range of hearing instruments available to address hearing loss. We take pride in our commitment to ensuring that individuals with hearing challenges receive the highest standard of care and support, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
Through continuous education, professional development, and a steadfast dedication to the well-being of our patients, BSHAA members exemplify excellence in the field of hearing care. Our mission is to champion the importance of hearing health, promote quality hearing care services, and provide our members with the resources and support they need to excel.
Thank you for being part of the BSHAA community, and we look forward to our shared journey in improving hearing health for all.
Our members' achievements are our achievements!
The British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA) plays a vital role in shaping and upholding high standards in both professional and business practices within the field of hearing care. Our commitment extends to providing resources for ongoing learning, and skill development, and fostering a culture of continuous professional development.
To achieve this, we actively regulate professional and commercial standards through the implementation of a comprehensive code of practice. Additionally, we ensure that our members, designated as MSHAA (Members of the Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists), and fellows, known as FSHAA (Fellows of the Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists), are actively enrolled in a program of continuing education. This program is designed to help our members maintain and expand their knowledge, especially given the rapidly evolving landscape of hearing aid technology.
At BSHAA, we are dedicated to supporting our members in their professional journeys and ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the hearing care industry.
For any inquiries or to learn more about our educational and professional development programs, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We are the voice of our community and an advocate for the future of our profession.
At the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA), we are staunch advocates for the advancement of hearing aid technology. We actively promote and support research and development initiatives in the field of audiology, recognising that innovation in hearing aid technology is essential to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
Our commitment extends beyond research; we are also dedicated to shaping the future of hearing care. By fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of best practices, we aim to ensure that the public receives the highest standards of hearing care both now and in the years to come.
Moreover, BSHAA is a steadfast proponent of raising awareness about hearing aid audiology among the public. We believe in empowering individuals with information and choices related to their hearing health. We support customer choice and accessibility in hearing aid care while upholding the assurance of high-quality service and a dedicated, professional workforce.
Our mission is to champion excellence in hearing care, and we are continually working towards a future where everyone can experience the transformative power of improved hearing.
For any inquiries or to learn more about our initiatives, please feel free to reach out to us at comms@bshaa.org.
BSHAA's History
The British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA) has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1954. Over the years, BSHAA has played a significant role in the development of hearing care in the United Kingdom.
Today, all Hearing Aid Dispensers are required to be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a regulatory body established by the UK government. The HCPC is responsible for maintaining a register of healthcare professionals and ensuring that registrants meet rigorous standards for their training, professional skills, education, and health. Hearing Aid Dispensers, by definition, are recognised as healthcare professionals, and their title (HAD) is legally protected. Only those on the HCPC register are authorised to use this title, which allows them to provide hearing aids for retail sales or hire. In accordance with the law, Hearing Aid Dispensers may even describe themselves as 'audiologists' or 'specialists.'
In the early days of the Society, there was no formal regulation or established path to qualification in the field. The term 'Hearing Aid Audiologist' emerged as the most suitable description for professionals engaged in assessing and prescribing hearing aids. Thus, the Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists was founded, later adding 'British' to its name to reflect its expanding role and scope.
BSHAA takes pride in representing the majority of Hearing Aid Dispensers on the HCPC register, with 2000 fellows, members, and associate members in its ranks. BSHAA members adhere to the Society's Code of Conduct, which sets high ethical standards for their professional practice. Moreover, clients of BSHAA members have access to the Society's Client Mediation Service, ensuring that they receive the best possible service and support for their hearing care needs.
We continue to work diligently to advance the field of hearing care and support the well-being of those with hearing challenges. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our initiatives, please feel free to contact us at comms@bshaa.org.