Modernisation Targets and Quarterly Reports
Data has been requested from all audiology departments in each NHS Board area, including the separate paediatric units in Lothian and Yorkhill. Paediatric information for other Boards are included in their overall figures.
For each of the main areas of modernisation NHS Boards were asked to supply information relating to the targets set by the Audiology Modernisation Project Board. Interim targets have also been set to allow the Project Board to monitor NHS Board's progress towards meeting the final target. The summary of the targets for audiology modernisation have been distributed to all NHS Boards and audiology departments.
NHS Boards were asked to supply data on:
The percentage of the total number of patients fitted with a hearing aid who have GHABP (Glasgow Hearing Aid Benefit Profile)/GHADP (Glasgow Hearing Aid Difference Profile) administered. These are questionnaires that are used to determine the actual benefits to the patients for what they require the hearing aid for. GHABP is used when a patient is first fitted with their hearing aid and GHADP is used when the patient returns for their review.
The percentage of the total number of patients fitted with a hearing aid who have REM (Real Ear Measurement) administered. REM involved the use of a probe in the ear which measures what is actually being heard. This allows the audiologist to match the hearing aid to the measured hearing loss.
The percentage of the total number of hearing aids issued which are digital. "Digital" refers to the method the hearing aid uses to process sounds. The sounds can be altered very precisely to meet the patients needs, resulting in a "cleaner" sound quality. However, digital hearing aids are not the answer to all hearing problems. Everybody's hearing is different and a wide range of hearing aids are available to suit those needs. The type of hearing loss and problems experienced will determine whether or not a digital aid will be suitable.
The percentage of the total number of patients fitted with a hearing aid who are offered a review appointment within 6 weeks. When a patient is fitted with their hearing aid, they should be offered a review appointment to ensure that they are satisfied with their hearing aid and it is meeting their requirements.
The maximum number of weeks waiting time from referral to assessment. This is the maximum waiting time from a patient being referred to the audiology department, to when they are assessed for their hearing aid.
The maximum number of weeks waiting time from assessment to fitting. This is the maximum waiting time from a patient being assessed for their hearing aid, to when the aid is fitted.
The data gathered from these reports is currently unvalidated and Information Services Division ( ISD) will publish validated figures when available.