A BOLTON hospital department is making it quicker and easier for patients to tap into a vital service.

The audiology department at the Royal Bolton Hospital is now accepting referrals for hearing aid assessment directly from GPs, care workers and patients themselves.

In the past, patients have had to be referred to the service via their GP and a consultant.

The direct referral service applies to patients who will be considered for a hearing aid only, and to ensure the efficiency of the department is maintained certain criteria must be met.

These include that the patient will be 60 or over, the hearing loss is about the same in each ear and there is no disturbing tinnitus.

The service is also moving out into the community and screening will be available in locations around the borough.

Local health centres, clinics, day centres and GP surgeries will house staff from the audiology department and anyone interested in hosting or attending these should contact the audiology department on Bolton 390435. The department is also opening its doors on March 23 for screening sessions and those over 60 who are concerned about their hearing should attend between 9am and 4pm. The audiology department is based in F block at the hospital.

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