Young islanders will need fewer clinic visits to diagnose hearing problems, thanks to new responsive test equipment funded by a local charity.
Guernsey Hard of Hearing has financed an overhaul of the Medical Specialist Group’s (MSG) Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA) setup – a system that pairs specific sounds with visual rewards like animations and lights to encourage children to turn their heads when they hear a tone.
MSG audiologist Amy Vermeulen said catching issues early makes a lasting difference: “Early identification of hearing loss is critical in helping children develop speech, language and communication skills, while also supporting their confidence and education.
The upgraded towers allow clinicians to tailor tests far more effectively, a spokesperson said.
This makes it easier to keep older toddlers engaged and offers vital flexibility for children with autism, developmental delays, or visual impairments.
Crucially, keeping youngsters engaged for longer means specialists can secure accurate, reliable results in fewer appointments.
Miss Vermeulen said VRA was “already a vital tool in paediatric audiology and these enhancements build on that, helping us to engage a wider range of children more effectively, in a way that feels natural and reassuring”.
Jackie Sholl, from Guernsey Hard of Hearing, added: “We’re proud to be able to fund this upgrade which will make such a difference to children and families in Guernsey.
“Early diagnosis can have a life-changing impact and this investment ensures the audiology team have access to modern tools that support the best possible outcomes for young patients.”
Referrals to MSG’s Audiology service can be made via a GP, health visitor, school nurse, ENT specialist, paediatrician, or speech and language therapist.
