Faster, more convenient hearing care will soon be available closer to home under a radical reform of audiology services announced by the Welsh Government.
The Future Approach for Audiology Services will move a range of hearing services from hospitals into local communities, building on successful models already delivering results in North Wales and the Swansea Bay University Health Board area.
This transformation aims to:
- Reduce pressure on hospital ENT departments, GP surgeries and community nursing services
- Ensure older people access specialist hearing care locally, including earwax removal services
- Upskill community clinicians to deliver high-quality audiology care
Welsh Health Secretary Jeremy Miles visited Cwmtawe Medical Group Primary Care Centre in Swansea to see the new approach in action. The centre provides direct access to specialist care, reducing unnecessary hospital referrals and cutting waiting times.
Early intervention for hearing loss offers significant health benefits beyond improved hearing. Research shows timely hearing care can help prevent dementia, reduce falls, and improve overall wellbeing among older people.
Innovative solutions include Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s award-winning mobile audiology unit, which brings services to 23 locations such as libraries, GP surgeries and supermarkets. The fully-equipped vehicle offers:
- Hearing tests
- Hearing aid repairs
- Tinnitus counselling
- Cochlear implant support
Jeremy Miles. Welsh Health Secretary, said:
“Extending many audiology appointments from hospitals to local services will improve access and efficiency. I’m delighted to see this happening already in Swansea and to see how many people are having an easier and faster experience accessing the services they need on their doorstep.”
The Future Approach for Audiology Services aligns with the Welsh Government’s commitment to deliver healthcare closer to home and reduce hospital waiting lists. All seven health boards will develop plans to implement the new service models over the next three years.
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