Despite the critical role ears play in our daily lives, awareness about proper ear care remains alarmingly low, according to Nasif Mohammed, an audiometrist with Hearing Aid Services from Australia. Recently, during a two-day screening at My Lab Pte Limited in Labasa Town, he examined 40 patients, ranging in age from four to 80 years old.
Many of these patients were suffering from preventable conditions, such as perforated eardrums, ear infections, blocked ear canals due to wax buildup, and residual effects from ear surgeries. Mohammed noted that a significant challenge for those in the northern region is the lack of local audiometric services, which often requires patients to travel to Suva for medical advice.
He expressed his hope that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services would consider sending Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists to Labasa on a monthly basis, thus providing much-needed support to local patients. One poignant moment captured during the screening involved a female patient with hearing impairment, whose emotional transformation upon receiving a hearing aid was deeply moving—illustrating how vital these services are to improving quality of life.
Mr. Mohammed also addressed the needs of students from the Labasa School for Special Education, many of whom require immediate medical assistance and hearing aids. He reminisced about similar services offered by the Lions Club Labasa before the pandemic and expressed a desire to initiate fundraising efforts to support children in need of specialized treatment abroad.
He emphasized the significance of ear health and the profound impact that hearing impairment can have on communication and overall quality of life. His return to Labasa after years underscored a crucial need for greater awareness and access to audiometric care in the region.
It’s heartening to see professionals like Mr. Mohammed taking initiative to address these critical health needs and advocating for better resources for those who suffer from hearing issues. His efforts not only shed light on the important issue of ear health but also inspire hope for a future where everyone can access the care they need.
Summary: Nasif Mohammed, an audiometrist from Australia, recently conducted a two-day hearing screening event in Labasa Town, where he treated patients suffering from various ear-related issues. He highlighted the lack of local audiometric services and called for increased awareness and support from health authorities to address the needs of those with hearing impairments, especially children. Mohammed’s work emphasizes the life-changing impact of proper ear care and the importance of providing accessible medical services.
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