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<p>Since April 1 2013 NHS England has been responsible for commissioning Alternative
and Augmentative Communication (AAC) aids for patients with complex disability whose
needs require specialised assessment, including for patients with motor neurone disease
(MND). Commissioning of non-specialised AAC aids is the responsibility of local clinical
commissioning groups.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>NHS England has published a service
specification for specialised AAC aids that sets out what should be in place for providers
to offer evidence-based, safe and effective services and supports equity of access
to a nationally consistent, high quality service for patients across the country including
in East Lancashire and the North West. The specification can be found at:</p><p> </p><p>
</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/d01-com-dis-equ-alt-aug-comm-aids.pdf"
target="_blank">www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/d01-com-dis-equ-alt-aug-comm-aids.pdf</a></p><p>
</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>NHS England has identified an additional £22.5 million funding
for AAC and Environmental Controls in 2014-15. They have been working closely with
the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) to ensure this funding is equitably distributed
across England in a fair and consistent manner. The MNDA are representing all patients
on the panel which is reviewing this funding allocation.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
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