§ Mr. AshleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how often the range of NHS hearing aids is reviewed; and what steps are taken to ensure that this range is updated in line with technical developments.
§ Mr. DorrellContracts for the standard range of NHS hearing aids are normally awarded for one or two year periods and are then subject to review and re-tender. Technical developments are kept under continuing review, having regard to clinical suitability, reliability and cost.
§ Mr. AshleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance is given by his Department to regional health authorities to assist them with drawing up their budget allocation for hearing aids and for setting their staffing levels within the audiology service.
§ Mr. DorrellNone. It is for health authorities to allocate resources for the purchase of hearing aids and audiology services in the light of local needs.