Conclusions
The sensitivity of the uHear app used with
the iPhone is adequate to screen for disabling
hearing loss, and has good accuracy to
high-frequency hearing loss in SRs and
QRs. Early detection of hearing loss with
hearing screening programmes is therefore
possible using mobile digital technology. A
mobile, non-operator-dependent method
used to screen for disabling hearing loss
and detect early high-frequency threshold
changes, such as an Apple iPhone, can help
overcome the lack of trained audiologists
or available infrastructure in developing
countries.[5] Because of the portability
of the device, hearing screening with
the iPhone uHear test is taken directly
to the patient and is an opportune way
to utilise existing community health and
educational facilities. Oncology units, ARV
rollout centres and TB hospitals with MDR/
extensively drug-resistant patients are ideal
centres in which to use this technology.
In addition, satellite clinics that regularly
dispense chronic medication to older adults
can also be considered.