WELCOME FOR PROMISE OF SHORTER WAITING TIMES FOR HEARING AIDS - BURSTOW

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 6th May 2008

Sutton and Cheam MP, Paul Burstow, has welcomed the news that the local NHS has redoubled its efforts to reduce long waits for fitting of hearing aids. The news comes following a meeting organised by the local MP between the Sutton Hard of Hearing Group and local NHS bosses.

The meeting had been called to raise concerns about long waits for appointments and the quality of the service. At the end of 2007 there were 1,700 people waiting for hearing aid fittings. As a result of additional clinics and investment there are now just 44 people left waiting, with the longest wait being 24 weeks. The NHS has promised that all of these people with have received their hearing aids by the end of May 2008.

Commenting Paul Burstow MP said:

"Impaired hearing can transform a persons life, long waits for an assessment and fitting are unacceptable. It is good news that the local NHS is now investing in this service and waiting times have taken a tumble.

"There is still more to be done to improve the way the service relates to people who are hard of hearing. But at least now there is a real dialogue."

ENDS