Millions Lose Access to Free NHS Earwax Removal Services
Nearly 10 million people in England have lost free access to NHS earwax removal, according to the RNID.
The charity cites a lack of medical justification for the service cuts since 2019, raising concerns about people resorting to unsafe DIY methods because they can't afford private care.
Despite GPs being able to refer to specialists for related hearing issues, it's left many, like Helen Kendall who now spends £240 annually on private treatment, struggling with isolation and social drawbacks.
The NHS annually sees around 2.3 million patients for earwax problems, often affecting the elderly and hearing-impaired. Proper removal methods include microsuction and electronic irrigation, yet local health board responses reveal inconsistent funding and service availability.
The RNID emphasizes affordability issues, with 26% of respondents unable to pay for necessary treatments. People are advised against self-removal, with GP consultations and possibly olive oil drops as initial treatments.
Commercial drops show limited efficacy. Health boards decide on local service provision, with audiology referrals available for related hearing loss.
The RNID is pushing for the restoration of services across the UK, with Scotland and Wales already committed, and efforts to advocate in Northern Ireland once its government is reinstated.
Despite GPs being able to refer to specialists for related hearing issues, it's left many, like Helen Kendall who now spends £240 annually on private treatment, struggling with isolation and social drawbacks.
The NHS annually sees around 2.3 million patients for earwax problems, often affecting the elderly and hearing-impaired. Proper removal methods include microsuction and electronic irrigation, yet local health board responses reveal inconsistent funding and service availability.
The RNID emphasizes affordability issues, with 26% of respondents unable to pay for necessary treatments. People are advised against self-removal, with GP consultations and possibly olive oil drops as initial treatments.
Commercial drops show limited efficacy. Health boards decide on local service provision, with audiology referrals available for related hearing loss.
The RNID is pushing for the restoration of services across the UK, with Scotland and Wales already committed, and efforts to advocate in Northern Ireland once its government is reinstated.
