22 July 2010
NHSG/106/10
NHS Grampian 'speaks up' for hearing aid amnesty
Audiologists are urging people across the North East to search their homes and return old hearing aids - so someone else can get the benefit of clearer hearing.
NHS Grampian issue between 5,000 and 6,000 hearing aids each year and many people may not realise an old or even damaged aid can be reconditioned and re-issued to another patient at a fraction of the cost.
Gordon McHardy, Head of Audiology Services with NHS Grampian said "Modern digital technology means that today's hearing aids are more flexible and can be re-programmed to suit an infinite number of different hearing losses."
"We also had to replace 400 lost hearing aids in the last financial year, at a time when all NHS departments are being asked to ensure the efficient use of resources, so anyone who comes across a discarded device should return it to us."
Hearing aid manufacturers are able to recondition the part of the device which sits behind the ear and provides the amplification required. The mould which goes in the ear is made specifically for each patient and can be disposed of. Reconditioned hearing aids are rigorously tested and checked to ensure they are of an equal standard to brand new devices.
Aids should be returned in person to the repair department at Woolmanhill Hospital or posted to the following address: Audiology Department, Woolmanhill Hospital, Aberdeen AB25 1LD. Please include a note explaining that the aid is no longer required and ensure aids are wrapped securely.