Question reference: S6W-05056
- Asked by: Gordon MacDonald, MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 8 December 2021
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Current status: Initiated by the Scottish Government. Answered by Humza Yousaf on 9 December 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it is aware of the British Academy of Audiology report on NHS Lothian's Paediatric Audiology Services, requested by NHS Lothian following a review by the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman.
Answer
The independent review of NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology Services has today been published on NHS Lothian’s website.
The report outlines an unacceptable level of failure in paediatric audiology treatment in NHS Lothian, which will have a lasting impact on the lives of some of our most vulnerable children.
Given the catalogue of failures and ongoing risks in Audiology health provision at NHS Lothian and in consultation with officials, I have decided to place the Board into Stage 3 of the ‘Board Performance Escalation Framework’ for Audiology performance and service delivery. This will ensure that a Formal Recovery Plan with tailored support, clear milestones and responsibilities is developed by NHS Lothian in partnership with the Scottish Government to bring about the necessary improvements.
I have already expressed my deep displeasure to NHS Lothian and my expectation that they must continue to enact the recommendations in this report as a matter of urgency.
I applaud the involvement of the National Deaf Children’s Society in providing support for those affected. I have accepted an invitation to meet and discuss how any key lessons can be applied Scotland wide.
I intend to keep Parliament fully informed on this matter.