SOME patients in the Okehampton area are still having to wait up to 18 months for new hearing aids, says a patients group. The issue of long waits for appointments was first highlighted last year by the Mid Devon Patients and Public Involvement Forum. The Forum will be hearing an update on the audiology service offered in the area from a speaker from Mid Devon Primary Care Trust at its next meeting, taking place in Okehampton. The patients watchdog had been assured that with new funding available the services would improve. Unfortunately say the Forum, there are still many cases where patients have to wait long periods of time. Anyone who has experienced long waits for appointments or has views about the local audiology services is welcome to attend the forum meeting. It will be held on Tuesday, July 25 at 2pm in the Ockment Centre. For further information call 01237 424000.