People suffering from a build-up of ear wax are not entitled to have their ears syringed on the NHS in England, Edward Argar, a government minister has confirmed.

Traditionally, wax was removed by the use of water injected into the ear with a large metal syringe. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence, which approves treatments for the NHS, now advises GP surgeries to use electronic irrigators or suction devices. If that repeatedly fails, the patient can be referred to "a specialist ear care service or an ear, nose and throat service".

Ear syringing at private clinics can cost around £80.

Mr Argar said: "The provision of ear syringing is an example of an enhanced service. If a local clinical commissioning group has decided not to commission an enhanced service, this may relate to population needs and value for money. If the build-up of earwax is linked with hearing loss, then the GP practice could consider referring the patient into audiology services."

The written ministerial statement did not address the question of the economic effect on those who rely on the service, who may have to pay for it.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-54296737



I wonder when this change was introduced .....

Apparently syringing isn't allowed because of the moisture in the air created by the water from the syringe. It adds to the risk of catching covid19.

My nurse told me I would have to go to Specsavers & pay to have it done.

I asked her 'If specsavers can do it , why can't you?'

She told me it was because Specsavers use a suction method - not water.
I asked why couldn't they use suction then & she replied they weren't allowed because it was more expensive.

How ridiculous & pathetic is that?

Anyway I've made an appointment at Specsavers at the cost of £55 for both ears..

I have never had a problem with ear wax but I am fascinated by those those ear wax removal videos on YouTube !
Sad isn’t it