RNID: Prompt access is needed
Thursday, 07 Feb 2008 10:46
Prompt access to hearing and balance disorder specialists must be provided, according to the RNID (Royal National Institute for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People).
A report from the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) said some people with hearing and balance disorders can wait years to see an appropriate specialist.
RNID chief executive Jackie Ballard said the report "comes as no surprise" to the charity as it is already aware of problems with hearing and balance care.
"Patients with hearing loss can suffer from depression, isolation and can find it hard to get by in work and social situations," she said.
"RNID knows of areas where the waiting time for hearing aids is up to two and a half years - so it comes as no surprise that patients are also waiting years to see hearing and balance disorder specialists."
She added: "Local primary care trusts hold the key. They must follow government guidance to provide people with prompt access to these services, and in particular hearing aids within 18 weeks for all those who need them."
