Given the significance of hearing aid provision for adults with hearing loss, BAA sought to support the guidance development process by nominating three experienced Board Directors and Committee Chairs for consideration as clinical experts. Collectively, these individuals bring extensive expertise across audiology practice, service delivery, professional standards and patient care. While none were ultimately selected to participate in the expert panel, one BAA representative was invited to contribute as a User Preference Participant and Public Observer.
BAA was concerned that no formal representation was initially sought from key professional, provider, manufacturer and supply sector organisations within audiology, including BAA, BSHAA, NCHA, BIHIMA, EHIMA and the Audiology Supplies Group (ASG), despite ASG members being actively involved in NHS hearing aid contract provision across England. Recognising the importance of ensuring the profession’s expertise was reflected within the process, BAA engaged with NICE to advocate for broader audiology representation and successfully secured recognition as a longlisted stakeholder organisation.
As the consultation is now open, BAA remains committed to supporting constructive engagement with the process and ensuring the views of audiology professionals are heard. We strongly encourage members and other stakeholders to review the draft guidance and submit their comments directly to NICE through the formal consultation process.
Date consultation closes: Tuesday 10 November 2026 at 5pm.
This consultation is an opportunity to provide any comments that you have on our draft guidance recommendations and evidence generation plan. Your insights and contributions are an invaluable part of the guidance development process, and we appreciate you taking time to provide comments.
All comments must be submitted via the online consultation system to be accepted as part of the consultation process.
For further details, please see the NICE HealthTech programme manual: here