Hearing Aids - FOI Response Register

1. What is the cost to the health board of one hearing aid (item only)?

The cost of a Danalogic Ambio Smart Power behind the ear is £87 plus VAT.

The cost of a Danalogic Ambio Smart Power Mini behind the ear is £44.99 plus VAT.

2. What is the average cost to the health board of supplying a hearing aid to a patient, including any administration and similar costs?

In accordance with FOISA s 17(1), NHS Shetland confirms that it does not hold the information requested.

3. How many people are currently on your health board’s waiting list to receive one hearing aid?

 93

4. How many people are currently on your health board’s waiting list to receive two hearing aids?

Included in the above number

Receiving a hearing aid – what is:

5. The estimated average wait time, and the longest wait time to receive a hearing aid, from first appointment to receiving the item?

Fittings are at time of first appointment

New patient first appointments - what is:

The current average, and the longest waiting time for a new patient first appointment for assessment and treatment of hearing loss?

 20 weeks

6. What are the reasons for the recent increase in waiting times for hearing aids?

 No substantive audiologist in post

7.  At current staffing levels and capacity, how long does your health board estimate that it would take to clear the waiting list, if no more people were added to it?

 No substantive audiologist in post