Hundreds of children 'suffer harm' as investigation reveals misdiagnosis problems in England's hearing services
The scale of problems in relation to child hearing services has been made clear following publication of leaked internal documents from NHS England in the Sunday Times which identified a nationwide failure in child hearing services. Experts have now reviewed all 140 audiology units located in England and there are concerns about 90 of the units.
The documents suggest, according to The Sunday Times, that 1,540 children have been misdiagnosed in relation to their hearing since 2019. The papers state that 480 children suffered moderate or severe harm.
Lawyers supporting people affected by hearing problems
I'm supporting many clients impacted with hearing loss following the failure of their Advanced Bionics cochlear implants, which includes a number of children. I know from speaking to them and their parents that suffering from a deterioration in hearing can adversely impact their education, work and social activities.
It can cause people to become socially isolated. My clients have explained to me that it can be difficult to follow conversations, particularly in groups. Some people have been unable to participate in any hobbies or activities requiring listening as it causes significant fatigue.
Furthermore, some have said they have had to avoid taking calls at work due to not hearing properly, while for children some have found their ability to take part in classroom tasks has been adversely affected.
For some children who have been misdiagnosed by this failure, this could cause delays in speech and language development and acquisition. This will have a knock-on effect on their educational attainment.
NHS England launched a review into hearing services in the NHS last year but only now do we know the size of the problem.
Conclusion
It's vital that patients are identified and receive treatment as a matter of urgency. Steps should be taken to avoid this happening in the future, including ensuring any recommendations identified are actioned.
Rehabilitation should be arranged for patients. Their families may also need support to access to additional services.
Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting those affected by failings in their hearing care at our dedicated cochlear claims section.
More information about The Sunday Times' report can be found online. Its story has been followed up by other publications.
