From late 2007 Specsavers Hearcare was commissioned as a short-term provider to support NHS County Durham and NHS Darlington through a ‘Waiting List Initiative’ that saw some 5,000 individuals, many waiting in excess of two years for their hearing aid, receive an assessment and unit fit. Through this initiative this substantial waiting list was processed within less than a year. Specsavers was a key ingredient with this great success for the PCTs in being able to respond to patient need and allocate individuals with a provider of choice who would be responsible for their hearing care for a three-year ongoing period.

In speaking with the commissioner leading for Audiology through that time I am told that Specsavers delivered an “excellent service” that was “dependable and flexible”, and that the PCT should consider them a beneficial partner to have and seek to maintain this positive working relationship.

Indeed Specsavers Hearcare has subsequently tendered for and, along with three other providers, was successful in gaining a ‘New Patient Audiology Service’ three-year contract to deliver multiple patient pathway care in line with our new, published, service specification.

I have been in post as lead throughout the introduction of this new contract period and have always found, as a commissioner, both the local Specsavers Hearcare franchise and the supporting national company to be professional, co-operative and reliable.

I would not hesitate in recommending Specsavers UK and Specsavers Hearcare to commissioning colleagues who may be looking at either short- or longer-term community audiological services. Should you have a comment or query regarding any part of this letter then please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best Regards Peter Taylor Development Manager, Acute Services