§ Lord Sefton of Garstonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether hearing aids provided by the NHS are of at least the same quality as any available in the private sector. [HL485]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Baroness Hayman)The National Health Service supplies from a robust range of high quality hearing aids to any patient with a clinical need. This range of hearing aids has been substantially updated over the last three years, and now has 22 models which cater for the full range of hearing impairment from mild to profound loss. "In the ear" models have been introduced, as have high frequency aids, mini aids and aids in different colours. In addition, alternative aids are available, and can be prescribed, to meet a clinical need in the NHS. Aids which are more complex or expensive, such as those available from the private sector, are not necessarily more effective.