To ask the Minister of Health why the pilot aimed at reducing waiting times for hearing loss appointments has been suspended.

In their initial preparation for a market sounding exercise, the HSCB engaged with HSC Trust Service Managers on their audiology service requirements and workforce plans to address the current backlog and future targets. This included, for example, that no patient over 55 years old is waiting longer than 9 weeks for assessment and 13 weeks to have a hearing aid fitted, once diagnosed, by 31 March 2017.

These plans were developed further at a HSC Trust workforce strategy and planning workshop in September 2016. As an outcome, priority has been given in the short term to the development of plans to reduce waiting times by March 2017.

The HSCB has advised that it has reprioritised the resources for the hearing loss pilot to fund delivery of the HSC Trusts’ waiting list backlog plans. It is now working with the Trusts, my Department and British Academy of Audiology to review the current workforce and produce a workforce plan to ensure the future sustainability of HSC services. In consequence, pilot is now on hold.