Patients with hearing problems across the UK are once again being invited to cast their votes for the country’s hearing aid audiologist of the year. Hearing aid battery manufacturer Rayovac is kicking off the New Year by launching its search for the UK Audiologist of the Year 2009.

Audiologist of the Year, which was held for the first time last year, is the only competition of its kind and gives patients a chance to reward and thank hearing care professionals for outstanding service.

Last year’s competition attracted hundreds of entries, with patients keen to show how their hearing aid audiologist makes a big difference and goes beyond the call of duty to help out.

This year’s competition promises to bigger and better with patients having until July 31 to enter by post or online at www.audiologistoftheyear. By entering their own hearing care professional for the award, patients also stand to win a cash prize. 

Heart-warming stories

Paula Brinson-Pyke from Rayovac said: “We’re delighted to launch Audiologist of the Year 2009. The competition has been a hit with patients and audiologists and highlighted some heart warming and inspirational stories.

“Audiologists can make a massive difference to the lives of their patients. Audiologist of the Year has illustrated the strong bonds that exist and underlines the importance of good hearing and good hearing care. We want patients to tell us what makes their audiologist so special.”

In recognition of the achievement, both the winning audiologist, and the patient who nominates them successfully, will receive prizes. The audiologist, as well as enjoying the publicity and prestige of the award, will receive a cash prize along with the nominating patient.

Audiologists stand to follow in the footsteps of inaugural winner Lisa Binns-Smith from Bradford. They will also be put forward for the European Audiologist of the Year award. This will be announced at the 2009 Union of Hearing Aid Acousticians Congress in Germany and chosen from national champions in France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain and Sweden.

For more information visit www.audiologistoftheyear.eu. The website contains entry details and a range of promotional materials.