The Vel weak phenotype is due to a heterozygous deletion in the same exon, resulting one functional copy of the SMIM1 gene. If a patient who is Vel negative is transfused with Vel positive red blood cells, they may form anti-Vel alloantibodies.
Hearing aids need to be fitted by someone trained specifically in hearing problems. An audiologist or licensed hearing aid provider can make sure your hearing aids fit and work for your type and degree of hearing loss. You also need to consider cost.
Once registered (or if already registered), a referral to the Audiology and Speech Pathology Clinic may be requested through your assigned VA Primary Care Provider. The audiologist will complete an evaluation and make a clinical determination on the need for hearing aids and/or other hearing assistive devices. If you are eligible, your hearing aids, repairs, and future batteries will all be at no charge to you.