Hidden Hearing opens new Centre of Excellence in the West

Hidden Hearing has announced the opening of a new Centre of Excellence for Diagnostic Audiology and Vestibular Assessments in Galway, the first dedicated regional hub of its kind in the West of Ireland. 

The centre offers advanced diagnostic services to address hearing loss, dizziness, vertigo, balance disorders, concussion-related vestibular issues, and fall risk.

Dizziness, vertigo, and balance dysfunction are often overlooked, yet increasingly common, particularly among older adults. International research ( Age and Ageing, Volume 51), shows that approximately 30% of adults aged 65 and over experience a fall each year, with vestibular dysfunction significantly increasing this risk. In Ireland, the TILDA study reports that at least one fall annually among older adults rose from 24% to 31% over the 14 years of the research project, highlighting the urgent need for specialist diagnostic and rehabilitation services.

The vestibular system, a sensory system located in the inner ear, works with the visual and proprioceptive systems to maintain balance, spatial orientation, and motion awareness. Disruptions within these systems, due to illness, injury, or aging, can lead to dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, or spatial disorientation, negatively affecting daily life. A vestibular assessment evaluates both inner ear (peripheral) and brain (central) function to pinpoint the cause and guide treatment.

“Early diagnosis and treatment can restore mobility, confidence, and independence,” explains Johane Mouton, Hidden Hearing Clinical Diagnostic Audiologist. "For too long, dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders have been overlooked. Our new Centre of Excellence gives patients a clear pathway to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

“Galway’s growing senior population and strong existing healthcare network make it a natural hub for integrated audiology and vestibular care. By providing local access to advanced diagnostics and rehabilitation, we’re aiming to reduce travel burden and delays for patients across the West.” 

The expansion of services is designed to support GP practices in providing timely care for patients with hearing, balance, or related concerns linked to chronic disease management care plans for stroke, diabetes, or other long-term conditions. Hidden Hearing’s GP referral pathway allows doctors to refer patients directly for diagnostic testing, and is an innovative development addressing long public waiting lists. Following assessment, patients receive a detailed report from their GP, ensuring clear coordination of care and rehabilitation. Members of the public, particularly older adults or those with a history of head injury, are also encouraged to seek early assessment.

Vestibular assessments at the Hidden Hearing’s Centre of Excellence may include:

● Comprehensive case history and audiology.

● BPPV assessment and treatment, with immediate treatment for positional vertigo if diagnosed.

● vHIT (Video Head Impulse Test) to evaluate all semicircular canals and detect subtle deficits.

● VNG (Videonystagmography) to evaluate eye movements to diagnose vestibular dysfunction and guide tailored rehabilitation.

To learn more, visit www.hiddenhearing.ie.