Organization: SilentCare Foundation
Title: Revival of Audiology and Hearing Care Services in a Government Hospital in Surat
Al title (for format and translation – not permanent:
Revival of audiology and hearing care services in a government hospital in Surat
Description:
SilentCare Foundation organized a World Hearing Day 2026 activity centered on the re-establishment of Audiology Services at SMIMER Hospital, Surat, where such services had remained non-functional for a prolonged period. This initiative was undertaken to restore access to essential hearing and speech care within a government healthcare setting and to strengthen early identification and intervention services for the community.
As part of this activity, the audiology department was operationalized and made functional again, enabling patients to access hearing assessment and related services at an affordable cost. The program focused particularly on underserved populations who previously faced barriers in accessing timely diagnosis and care due to the unavailability of services in the public sector.
Screening and evaluation services were provided for children and individuals at risk of hearing loss, including those with delayed speech and language development, history of ear problems, or developmental concerns. Basic audiological assessments, otoscopic examinations, and guidance for further management were conducted. Cases requiring advanced intervention were referred appropriately.
In addition to clinical services, awareness sessions were conducted for caregivers, patients, and the general public within the hospital premises. These sessions emphasized the importance of early hearing screening, speech and language milestones, and the impact of untreated hearing loss on communication, education, and quality of life.
Special attention was given to high-risk groups such as children with malnutrition, low birth weight, and developmental delays, as these conditions are closely associated with increased risk of hearing impairment and delayed speech-language outcomes. The activity also highlighted the role of early detection in preventing long-term disability and improving rehabilitation outcomes.
The initiative further served as an advocacy effort to demonstrate the importance of sustainable audiology services within government hospitals. By reinstating these services, the program contributes to strengthening public health infrastructure and aligns with global efforts to reduce preventable hearing loss and improve access to ear and hearing care.
This activity reflects a step towards bridging the gap between need and service availability and reinforces the commitment to inclusive and accessible hearing healthcare for all.
Primary site: SEAR- India
Region: SEAR
Secondary sites:Surat Gujarat
Impactful Story:
A 15-year-old adolescent was identified with conductive hearing loss during screening at the re-established audiology services at SMIMER Hospital, Surat. The patient had been experiencing hearing difficulty for a long time but had not received proper diagnosis due to lack of access and awareness. Through assessment and counselling, it was explained that conductive hearing loss is treatable with medication or surgery. Additionally, several post-operative patients were screened and guided for further management. This initiative helped patients understand that hearing loss can be treated, encouraging timely care and improving their quality of life.
General Photos
Pure tone audiometry testing at SMIMER Hospital Surat
High patient turnout for hearing services
Hearing assessment using audiometry system
Audiology services revival covered in media
Types of Engagement:
Live event: Yes
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: No
Special needs populations: persons with disabilities (including hearing loss), children and adolescents, older adults
Met with individual policymaker: No
Participation of policy makers: No
Participation of influencers: No
WHO technical tool used: No
WHO educational and social media used: No