§ 60. Mr. Pannellasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Mrs. Nora Mealia, 157, Broadlea Terrace, Bramley, Leeds, was refused a deaf aid at St. James's Hospital, Leeds, on the ground that she had previously privately purchased an instrument; that this instrument is now worn out; and whether, in view of the fact that Mrs. Mealia's husband has been unable to work for 10 years, he will consider this as a priority case.
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithAs the hon. Member was informed on 31st March, this patient has not been refused an aid. She was, in fact, placed on the waiting list as soon as she applied but the hospital authorities, who are aware of all the circumstances, do not consider that there are sufficient grounds for giving her priority.
§ 67. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there are between 200 and 300 patients waiting to be diagnosed for hearing aids at the Blackburn diagnostic clinic, including patients from Accrington; and, as this is largely due to the fact that all cases diagnosed at Blackburn have to await fitting at a distribution centre at Preston, whether he will set up a distribution centre at Blackburn.
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithMy right hon. Friend is aware of the position at Blackburn, but as the hon. Member has been informed by letter, patients from other areas who are fitted at Preston have no advantage over his constituents, nor are they having to wait longer than in some other parts of the country. My right hon. Friend is however reviewing the position at all Centres to see whether improvements can be made.