More than 4,000 receive free hearing aids

More than 4,000 people in Guyana have received free hearing aids from the government over the past five years, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said on Friday.

Speaking at the launch of a support group for first-time hearing aid users, he said the initiative had significantly expanded since 2021.

Figures show that 563 people benefited in 2021, rising to 1,022 in 2022. A further 850 received assistance in 2023, with a record 1,586 individuals provided with hearing aids last year.

Dr Anthony stressed that hearing loss is not limited to older people but is also affecting younger generations.

To tackle the issue, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has screened more than 20,000 school-aged children, including those in nursery and lower primary school, for signs of hearing impairment.

He also noted that before 2021, those in need of hearing aids had to pay $65,000 for them. The devices also required new batteries every two weeks, adding to the cost.

However, under the government’s programme, hearing aids are now free, and a rechargeable model has replaced the older, battery-dependent versions.

The minister said the government was working to decentralise hearing aid services and improve access across the country.

As part of these efforts, the ministry is investing in specialised equipment and soundproof booths for hearing loss screenings.

Four additional booths are set to be installed this year in Regions Two, Six, and Ten, as well as another yet-to-be-announced location.