Help us demand change and improve access to NHS wax removal services. Join our #StopTheBlock campaign to end the postcode lottery and ensure everyone has access to a free NHS wax removal service, when they need it.
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A vital service withdrawn
Our new report has exposed a serious lack of progress on the availability of ear wax services in England. It remains a prominent issue with an estimated 2.3 million people requiring professional ear wax removal every year in the UK, but many are still facing difficulties getting their ear wax professionally removed. As a result, people can face painful symptoms, delayed audiology care, and even an impact on their mental health challenges.
The lack of consistent NHS ear wax removal services, particularly with many GP surgeries no longer offering this service, leaves people with few options. Private removal, often costing up to £100, is unaffordable for many, while attempting self-removal can lead to serious complications, such as permanent damage to the ear or hearing loss.
There is no medical reason for withdrawing this vital service and the ongoing cuts to ear wax removal services are having a profound impact on people’s wellbeing.
“It was July 2021 when I visited the doctor for my routine ear wax removal. I was shocked when he told me that they no longer could do my ear wax removal. I paid £55 to go privately to have my ear wax removed”
Read more about ear wax build up.
Read more about our ear wax campaigning work