Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 473: To ask the Minister for Health the reason the Health Service Executive hearing aid specialists cannot repair bone anchor hearing devices, which would save the HSE money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20734/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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The HSE has advised that its national technical support service is not certified to undertake repairs of bone anchored hearing aids (BAHAs).

The HSE National Audiology Review Report proposes specific care pathways for BAHA patients and makes recommendations in relation to the development of a BAHA service. It recommends that funding be allocated to specific ENT departments where expertise can be concentrated. It also recommends that BAHA devices and repairs be subject to national procurement to ensure value for money.

I am informed that planning and development work is underway by the HSE to progress these recommendations.