Ear Specialist Gives Free Service

While the ears are important organs, majority do not know how to take care of them, says Hearing Aid Services consultant (HAS) audiometrist Nasif Mohammed of Australia.

During his two days of screening at My Lab Pte Limited in Labasa Town recently, he had attended to 40 patients - the youngest a four year old while the eldest was 80.

He said most of the patients suffered mismanagement of the ear such as perforated ear drum, ear infection, ear canal blocked with ear wax, scar tissue, some having ear discharge and unable to clean it the right way.

More awareness 

“I have been told that there is no audiometrist in the North and patients who need medical advice travel to Suva,” Mr Mohammed said.

“I hope the Ministry of Health and Medical Services can send an Ear Nose Throat (ENT) specialist like once in month to Labasa so that patients can get the help they need.”

He saw a female patient with hearing impairment, sitting down feeling depressed in the clinic.

While describing the treatment he provided, tears rolled down from his eyes, the patient leaped with joy after hearing voices with the support of a hearing aid.

He also saw students with hearing problems from Labasa School for Special Education.

AHAS Hearing Aid Services consultant audiometrist Nasif Mohammed of Australia (far right), and his team.

“Some need urgent medical attention and hearing aid,” he said.

“I had carried out similar service organised by Lions Club Labasa before the Coronavirus pandemic.

“I hope we could more for the children such as getting together to raise funds and send them overseas for treatment like how other medical trips are organised.”

People, including children who are unable to hear and in dire situation in need for treatment do not live a normal life.

“Ear is an important organ and imagine living a life without the ability to hear and unable to communicate. Coming back after so many years to Labasa I feel more awareness is needed.”

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