Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called for the establishment of one-stop clinics cross NHS Tayside after it emerged that 665 patients across NHS Tayside are on the waiting list for the fitting of hearing aids.
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
“The number of people in Scotland with hearing loss is estimated to be around 850,000 with 340,000 adults in Scotland having to wear hearing aids.
“It is unacceptable that there are currently 665 patients across NHS Tayside on the waiting list for the fitting of hearing aids and over 5000 across Scotland.
“In the event where an individual requires a hearing aid it is vital that they receive this as soon as possible to support them to continue living independently and reducing their risk of experiencing isolation.
“The picture across Scotland is very mixed when it comes to accessing specialist hearing services and I know from speaking to constituents that some have faced a considerable wait to review a hearing aid – something which could be addressed by establishing local audiology teams.
Liz continued:
“NHS Fife are to be congratulated for operating a one-stop clinic, where patients can see a consultant, undergo a hearing diagnostic test and the fitting of the hearing aid in one visit.
“I would like to see the establishment of more one-stop clinics and audiology teams in each local health board area in order to maximising the quality and efficiency of their service by training third sector volunteers to deliver community-based basic maintenance and support for NHS hearing aid wearers.”