People using local NHS adult hearing services are being urged to join a special engagement event to discuss plans aimed at improving the services in Berkshire West. Health service commissioners are holding the virtual event on Thursday 20 May from 2.30-4pm to look at current services offered in local hospitals and high street outlets. This includes adult hearing (hearing tests and assessments) and the supply and fitting of NHS hearing aids as well as a review of the information, advice, follow up appointments and after care offered to patients. The event is being run by Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) which currently commissions services for people aged 55 and over who suffer from age-related hearing loss. At the moment the services are supplied by the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust and SpecSavers, however the nature of the current system means people can face unnecessary three yearly GP referrals and there are fragmented pathways for patients under 55. The contracts are due to expire soon which is why the health teams believe now is a good time to discuss options for the future with those who use the service and other interested people. The CCGs preferred options are for an inclusive Adult Hearing Loss service for all adults aged over 18, providing a more co-ordinated lifetime pathway with onward referrals between ENT, Adult Hearing services and diagnostics. This would mean people have more timely access to assessments. They would also benefit from easier access to a range of other treatments, support, after care and advice services. The proposed changes would shorten waiting times for appointments and treatment and create a service that is highly responsive to the needs of local communities. Use : this Microsoft Teams link to join the meeting at 2.30pm on Thursday 20th May.