Audiogram

Most people getting a hearing test aren't genuinely interested in hearing aids. If they are, hearing aid consultations are available as a separate appointment type and are often not billed for. I honestly think that if clinicians were able to make a living off their clinical services alone, then the cost of hearing aids would come down. Unbundled services tend to also be appreciated more by clients as they understand the value of product versus the services. Most of the actual cost is not the devices themselves when you're dealing with large international chains. They get very large volume discounts.

@Hildegard said:

Are you asking what an audiologist should be paid for a Specsavers “free hearing test”? Or just in general?

‘Free’ is conditional. They provided the test for free.

If you want to take that test and use it to buy some aids online, then I think it’s reasonable for them to receive some recompense for providing the shop, trained person and level of service to you. In the case of Specsavers you might find that the Hearing Care ‘partner’ rents the space from the Optics side of the business, so they are looking at a flat loss before even considering paying the Audiologist.

I’m not justifying their business model, but a professional service was rendered in private healthcare. You try getting a FREE letter out of a Lawyer or private diagnosis from an ENT Consultant.

@Um_bongo said:

You try getting a FREE letter out of a Lawyer or private diagnosis from an ENT Consultant.

Those worthies don't advertise free anything on Facebook. "Free hearing test (opinion given verbally only)!" doesn't have the same ring to it as "Free hearing test!". The business baits the line and casts the line. Don't blame the punter for taking them at their word.

@d_Wooluf said:

Those worthies don't advertise free anything on Facebook

We have solicitors who advertise the first 30 minutes verbal advice as ‘free’: if you want a letter or something binding, you’ll pay for it.

I’m not here to defend their model and I’m not a fan that they get to offshore profits vs people who have to pay tax within the U.K., but (unless it’s a NHS driven service) someone has to pay the piper. The OP was tested for free - case closed.

@mindsil said:

That doesn't stop the ENT from sending a steady stream of people over for the free hearing test so they can use it as part of their evaluation, and telling the person that they don't have anyone who can do a hearing test for 6 months.

Yes, this happens, legal claims firms fishing for pre-tested clients too. People assume it’s an unconditional offer.

Fwiw Specsavers probably have a raft of T&C’s covering this.