Gauteng Health makes strides in ensuring that ear and hearing care services are accessible for all
As we mark World Hearing Day (3rd of March), the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) encourages everyone to prioritise their ear and hearing health. Individuals experiencing hearing difficulties should visit their nearest healthcare facility for assessment as addressing hearing problems early can prevent further complications and improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing difficulties.
In addressing the demand for hearing aids, the GDoH has made progress in ensuring that as many people as possible access the devices. In the past three years up to January 2024 the department has issued devices to 16 753 qualifying people and currently has 566 people that are on the register to receive hearing aids in the new financial year.
A total of 67 FM Systems – which help reduce background noise, improve clarity and reduce listening fatigue, comprising of 42 for children aged 0-18 years and 25 for adults aged 19 years and older, were distributed. In addition, nine Bone Conduction Hearing Aids, which amplify sound via bone conduction, or vibrations through the bones of the skull, were issued from Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) and Steve Biko Academic Hospital (SBAH) changing lives of five children and four adults in the 2023/24 financial year.
The Department’s Cochlear Implant Program continues to benefit many individuals suffering from hearing impairments. A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device that allows a severely deaf person to perceive sounds. This electronic device stimulates the auditory nerve through electrodes placed in the cochlea of the inner ear. The cost of the implant is around R250 000.
During the current financial year, a total of 38 cochlear implants surgeries were performed at CHBAH, benefiting 18 children and 20 adults. The SBAH started its cochlear implant program in 2019 and has already performed 18 cochlear implants to date.
“We are committed to ensuring that ear and hearing care is accessible to all residents. Through our comprehensive range of services, including screenings, treatment options, and assistive devices, we aim to address hearing loss and promote better ear health. Our efforts have resulted in a drastic reduction in the
waiting list for hearing aids which is a milestone that reflects our commitment to the well-being of communities," explains Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
In support of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) vision of changing mindsets by making ear and hearing care a reality for all, the GDoH has made strides in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing problems.
The Department has, as part of the comprehensive range of services, implemented various initiatives to address hearing loss and difficulties among individuals. These initiatives include therapy, assistive devices, and early identification through screening. In the current financial year, a total of 13,474 children were screened for hearing loss at various hospitals and primary healthcare facilities to ensure early detection and intervention.
Early Childhood Intervention workshops are also conducted to educate healthcare providers and offers early developmental screening for disabilities, including hearing loss detection, as part of the Road to Health Booklet package of services targeting children.
Watch the testimony of Mr Zweli Duma a beneficiary of the cochlear implant program on our YouTube channel https://youtube.com/watch?v=NOdUvfq4qow&feature=shared or download his video via this link https://we.tl/t-VjFGawpJGp.
For more information please contact:
Motalatale Modiba, Head of Communication
Cell: 064 803 0808
E-mail: healthmediaenquiries@gauteng.gov.za
Tshepo Shawa, Spokesperson for the MEC for Health
Cell: 072 222 6333
E-mail: Tshepo.Shawa@gauteng.gov.za
