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Hearing Impaired: Standards

Volume 473: debated on Thursday 13 March 2008

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his policy is on the recommended frequency with which people with hearing and balance disorders should be monitored by health care professionals. (190459)

Patients should be advised to return to primary care to be referred for a review on a needs basis. It is suggested that patients are reviewed after a period of time, to check that their hearing aid is delivering optimum benefits. The frequency of such a review should be determined locally in conjunction with audiology providers and based on patient need. If a patient’s hearing deteriorates and/or they feel their hearing aid is no longer fit for purpose, they should be advised to return to primary care where support may be provided. If appropriate, the patient will be referred to an audiology provider for assessment and, if required, treatment.