With long waits for audiology services in Wales, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives and Clwyd West MS Darren Millar, recently paid a visit to Specsavers in Mold to discuss the issue.
Darren met with Stephen McAndrew, Director of NHS Services, Jack Davies, Contact Lens Optician and Retail Director and John Wisbey, Hearing Aid Audiologist and Hearcare Store Director, who outlined the impact of the problems here in North Wales.
Darren agreed with them that more needs to be done to improve services in Wales and that the Welsh Government should do more to enlist the help of high-street audiologists, in the same manner as optometrists, to ensure that patients in Wales are given the best service.
Speaking after his visit, Darren said:
“There is a mounting demand for eye and ear health services given demographic trends in an ageing Wales.
“When it comes to hearing loss, 94% of adult-onset age-related cases can be easily treated in community settings, yet at present have to seek treatment through hospital settings, placing undue strain on an already struggling health service.
“A clear opportunity exists to enlist the help of high-street audiologists in the same manner as opticians, ensuring value for money for the taxpayer, a reduction in waiting times, and so that people can access care closer to home.
“Specsavers already provide free hearing tests in Wales but could clearly be doing so much more. Community audiology service providers hold NHS audiology contracts elsewhere in the UK, yet NHS hearing loss services in Wales are exclusively provided within NHS Wales.
“Allowing providers such as Specsavers to take on more would undoubtedly improve the patient experience and stop patients being forced to go private or suffer in silence. It makes perfect sense, particularly here in North Wales where I was advised that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has the worst adult audiology numbers in Wales."
Darren added:
“During my visit we also discussed the optometry and optician services provided at Specsavers and the demand for these services.
“Specsavers have branches throughout North Wales and their staff all work tirelessly to provide the best patient experience, I saw this first hand during my visit and I wish to thank each and every one of them for all that they are doing.
“It is important that we all look after our eyes and ears, and I would encourage anyone who hasn’t had them tested for some time to book an appointment.”
Specsavers audiologists offer free hearing tests in their stores across the country. To make an appointment, visit Hearing Aids & Hearing Tests | Specsavers UK
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