Children's audiology

Children's audiology provides diagnosis and management of hearing disorders in children.

About children's audiology

The Audiology department offers a paediatric hearing assessment for babies (from eight months), children and teenagers up to 18-years-old. A referral from a GP, ENT consultant, Audiovestibular physician or Speech and Language Therapist will be required to book the appointment. Once we receive the referral, the appointment is usually booked in the same week, at your convenience, without waiting time.

As part of the appointment, the specialist audiologist will investigate the child’s clinical history, perform the appropriate audiological tests (based on child’s age and development) and tympanometry (to check for middle ear problems, such as glue ear). The results will be interpreted and explained to parents/caregivers and the referring doctor through a written report. Recommendations regarding further referrals may also be made based on the results.

Tests available:

  • Visual reinforcement audiometry (suitable for children aged eight months to 24 months)
  • Conditioned play audiometry (suitable for children aged 24 months to 7 years old)
  • Tympanometry
  • Otoacoustic emission testing

How to book a hearing assessment for your child

To book your child in for a hearing test, you’ll need to have a referral from a GP, Paediatrician, ENT consultant, Audiovestibular physician or Speech and Language Therapist. This is to confirm that a healthcare professional will receive and follow up on the results from the appointment. If you already have a private referral, please send it to audiologygroup@cromwellhospital.com with your contact details and we will contact you to arrange an appropriate appointment.

If you think that your child needs a hearing test but you don't yet have a referral, the first step is to contact your healthcare professional and request a written private referral for a paediatric hearing assessment. Once you have received your child's referral, please send it to the email address above.

For more information regarding tests or if you would like to speak to a member of the Audiology team, call the clinic on 020 7460 5771

Please note that we do not provide a paediatric intensive care unit at Cromwell Hospital. However, any deteriorating child will be quickly assessed and stabilised by a Resident Medical Officer (RMO) trained in paediatric intensive care, supported by an on-call Paediatric Intensive Care Consultant, before being transferred to the most appropriate paediatric intensive care provider by the Children’s Acute Transport Service (CATS).

"I would like to thank everyone at Cromwell Hospital for the fantastic way you looked after me. I could not fault anyone during the time I spent with you - from the point I arrived in reception, to the catering team and every member of staff throughout the changes of shift during my stay."

Anonymous, Cromwell Hospital patient

Book an appointment today

Our telephone lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm Saturdays.

Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.