A new appointment system is to be introduced at Noble’s Hospital for patients with NHS hearing aids who need help with their devices.
Currently, the Island’s Audiology Service hosts weekly drop-in sessions for patients to have their hearing aids adjusted or repaired. Under the new system to start on 2 March 2020, patients will be asked to book their slot at the busy clinic in advance.
Dr Stephen Griffiths, Head of Audiology explains:
‘The number of people needing hearing aids is growing, a trend we are seeing worldwide. As a result, we have days when the drop-in clinics are quiet while at other times the waiting room is bursting at the seams. It’s become unpredictable and can be frustrating for patients.’
He added:
‘It’s not uncommon for lots of patients to arrive at the same time to beat the queue. This causes bottlenecks, long waits and on occasion, we have to turn people away because the clinic is full to capacity. Switching to an appointment system will mean a guaranteed consultation with the audiologist, at a time to suit and without any lengthy waiting. I appreciate booking in advance may be a slight inconvenience but this will create a more efficient system, and I believe the patient experience will be greatly improved as a result.’
The clinics will be held on the same days as at present and the patients will be able to book an appointment on the day of their choice. Appointments will be available on Monday morning, Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning every week starting Monday 2 March 2020.
Appointments can be arranged by telephone +44 1624 650407, via email to audiology.nobles@gov.im or by using the ‘contact us’ button on the Audiology Service Facebook page.
Existing drop-in clinics will continue until Friday 28 February 2020.
