What is the Difference Between a Hearing Test and a Hearing Assessment?

If you’re thinking about getting your hearing checked, you may have come across the terms "hearing test" and "hearing assessment." While they sound similar, they refer to quite different procedures, and understanding the difference can help you make a more informed choice about your hearing health.

As an audiology clinic, we offer both services to people in Hoddesdon and the surrounding areas, depending on your needs. Whether you're simply curious about your hearing or experiencing noticeable issues, here’s what each involves, and which one might be right for you.

Hearing Test - Free, Quick, and Informative

A hearing test, also known as a hearing screen, is a free appointment that lasts around 30–45 minutes. It’s ideal for people who are unsure whether they have a hearing issue and want a baseline of their hearing levels or general advice on their hearing health.

What’s Included:

• Brief history taking to understand your symptoms and concerns

• A 4-point audiogram using pure tone audiometry to measure your basic hearing thresholds

Who It’s For:

• People curious about their hearing

• Those who suspect a mild issue but want a simple check

• Individuals looking for peace of mind or a starting point

What Happens Next:

If hearing difficulties are identified during the screening, you’ll be advised to return for a full hearing assessment to gain a deeper understanding of the cause and explore the next steps for treatment.

Hearing Assessment - Comprehensive, Diagnostic, and Personalised

A hearing assessment is a paid clinical appointment that typically lasts around 90 minutes. This is a detailed diagnostic process tailored to identify the nature and extent of your hearing challenges and offer solutions that suit your lifestyle.

What’s Included:

• Detailed history taking to explore your symptoms, medical background, and daily listening environments

• Advanced diagnostic testing, which may include:

  • Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA): full frequency range hearing thresholds

  • Tympanometry: middle ear function analysis

  • Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) testing: where appropriate

  • Other relevant assessments

• Advice on personalised next steps, including:

  • Hearing protection

  • Communication strategies

  • Wax removal (if needed)

  • In-clinic trial of the latest hearing aid technology, if appropriate

Who It’s For:

• Anyone experiencing noticeable hearing challenges

• Those who failed a previous screening

• People who need a diagnosis and treatment plan

The Outcome:

You'll receive a clear explanation of your results and a tailored action plan to help improve your hearing and overall quality of life.

Which One Should You Book?

• Book a hearing test (screen) if you’re unsure about your hearing and want a quick, free check.

• Book a hearing assessment if you’re noticing ongoing hearing issues or want a full clinical picture of your auditory health.

Take Control of Your Hearing Health

At Tranquil Hearing Care in Hoddesdon, we’re here to guide you through every stage of your hearing journey, from initial checks to full assessments and aftercare. If you're ready to learn more about your hearing or take the first step toward clearer sound, we're here to help. Contact our audiology clinic in Hoddesdon or book an appointment with one of our expert audiologists.