§ 92. Mr. Errollasked the Minister of Health what is the estimated consumption of replacement batteries for Medresco hearing aids, and what is the actual demand for replacement batteries at the present time.
127W
§ Mr. BevanThe actual present demand for replacement batteries is 166,000 a month. This is about two-thirds of the original estimate, which was based upon people using the aids about 15 hours daily.
§ 93. Mr. Errollasked the Minister of Health what checks have been instituted to ensure that recipients are continuing to make full use of their Medresco hearing aids; and what steps are being taken to secure the return of hearing aids which have been issued but which are no longer being used by recipients.
§ Mr. BevanEvery patient who receives an aid is asked to return it if he stops using it. In addition, general arrangements are being made for hospitals to follow up every patient who stops collecting batteries.
§ 123. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that applicants for a hearing aid in the Maidstone division are being required to wait a year or more before receiving one; and if he will take steps to end this situation.
§ Mr. BevanThe waiting period depends on the priority of the case, and in some is as low as three months. Extension of the distribution centre at Canterbury is being considered.