What did the project involve? This project focussed on the detection and management of hearing loss in adults with learning disabilities, who are significantly more likely to have an undetected hearing loss than the general population.The 3As model aimed to identify and remove barriers in Access, Assessment and Aftercare.
How does it improve patient care? The 3As model has resulted in increased activity and significant improvements in quality of life for adults with learning disabilities. The achievement the team are most proud of is the transformation they see in service users following treatment of hearing loss. Hearing individuals speak who were thought unable to communicate is just one humbling and rewarding example.
Shared learning The team now deliver training programmes on how to detect hearing problems. This training has been accepted by NHS Innovations North, and will therefore be developed for the benefit of other organisations. The 3As are relevant to any health discipline, not just audiology and the team are passionate about the continuation of the project.
Project Leads - Lynzee McShea (senior clinical scientist, audiology) and Chris Corkish (senior lecturer, learning disability nursing), City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Foundation TrustFind out more
For more information, email [email protected] or call 0191 569 9001