Experienced audiologist Finlay MacLean appointed to boost service across the Highlands and Islands.
Optical specialist Duncan and Todd Group, which owns J M MacDonald in Inverness and Skye, has appointed expert audiologist Finlay MacLean to provide hearing care services to patients across the North.
With more than 17 years’ experience in the audiology sector, Finlay is a registered hearing aid dispenser (RHAD) and is regulated by a government body, The Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC).
He is based at J M MacDonald on View Place in Inverness but travels to the Skye branch as well as the Duncan and Todd branch in Nairn to see patients.
In addition to supplying services for those already managing their hearing, Finlay’s appointment will help to raise awareness of the importance of ear health and break down any age-related stigma in the wider community, with adults of all ages who notice the slightest change to their hearing being encouraged to schedule a free health check-up.
Having always been interested in helping people, Finlay homed in on his caring nature and started his audiology career in 2005 with the global organisation, Amplifon.
He trained internally and worked his way up to general manager before being awarded the responsibility of building up its Highlands and Islands operation from scratch, where he and his team received internal accolades for growth.
Finlay went on to work for other hearing care providers before moving into a frontline role for the NHS during the CV19 pandemic.
Now returning to focus solely on hearing care, Finlay is looking forward to providing expert levels of care for his loyal patients as well as offering services to new patients.
“I’m extremely pleased to be focusing on hearing care again, it’s a service close to my heart and one we continue to promote as a health care priority to all ages,” he said. “What really motivates me is seeing the smiles on my patients face when they feel their hearing improve after a significant time of struggle.”
Finlay was attracted to Duncan and Todd Group’s high-quality brand, aftercare and customer service offering.
“I have close to two decades of experience within this sector and over time I’ve realised what’s important to me as a health care provider. I would not have joined any company, it had to be one where I believed in the brand and has high levels of care for its patients, and that’s the Duncan and Todd Group.
“For some people, this service really transforms their life, so it’s vital we can accommodate demand for this service and I’m hoping my appointment can boost awareness within the region and encourage people to come in for check ups or advice. Individuals should remember their ears are just as important as any other health concern,” he said.
“I would encourage anyone who notices the slightest change to their hearing not to procrastinate. Book in for an appointment today, even if it feels minor. It is always worthwhile to try to prevent any further changes than source more severe remedial action.”
Frances Rus, Managing Director of Duncan and Todd Group, welcomed Finlay’s appointment.
“We are delighted to have Finlay on board in our J M MacDonald branch and I know he will be committed to providing high quality hearing care to local people in Inverness, Nairn, Skye and the surrounding areas,” she said.
“Hearing care is an essential service and Duncan and Todd Group practices can be the first point of contact for any changes in hearing. Our team will refer you to a GP if required. We want to continue to break down the stigma that still exists around hearing problems as these can often be easily fixed, immeasurably improving quality of life for our patients.”
Each branch that offers hearing care sells a variety of hearing aids offering the latest technology. All audiologists across the organisation receive technical training and are specialised in recommending the right product based on diagnosis and the individual’s lifestyle needs.
Hearing aids can be battery driven or rechargeable, with battery operated devices starting at £495 per aid.
As an independent optician, Duncan and Todd Group offers full hearing care services across 19 branches, delivered by a team of audiologists, and has invested in providing a dedicated space for audiology appointments, as well as an in-house staff training programme to accommodate for more demand within the sector.
To find out more about what services Duncan and Todd Group practices can provide and to find your nearest branch, visit https://www.duncanandtoddgroup.com/services/hearing