Scots waiting year for hearing tests

SCOTS face years-long waits for hearing tests amid calls for GP referrals to be scrapped to speed up the process.

- BY CHRIS MCCALL

Charities and politicians believe NHS audiology services should be available on the high street without the need to see a doctor first.

Lib Dem MP Wendy Chamberlain warned that Scots in some parts of the country face waits of 395 days on average for an appointment, with the longest wait 1,804 days in Fife.

It comes after the SNP Government was accused of “shelving” an independent review into the provision of NHS hearing services that identified “multiple systemic problems”.

Hearing loss is the most common sensory impairment and impacts one in every four adults. The rate rises steeply among older Scots, with 60% of over-60s suffering hearing loss.

High street businesses like Boots and SpecSavers already offer free hearing tests, but can charge up to £60 for other services such as ear wax removal.