26 January 2024

RNID calls on NHS to fix wax management crisis

The RNID has launched a campaign to improve access to ear wax management services in England.

In its latest report, the RNID reveals how the NHS fails to meet the needs of millions of people with impacted ear wax. The RNID's call to action has received national coverage, including from the BBC.

The RNID report says that "ear wax removal services should be provided by the NHS in local settings" and commissioners should "investigate the different delivery models in use, or innovative new approaches, to create cost-effective models that meet people's needs". It also notes that people who self-fund their care spend between £50 and £100 per treatment, which is unaffordable for people on low incomes.

The NCHA has welcomed the report.

Harjit Sandhu, managing director at the NCHA, said: "In October last year, we raised concerns about significant gaps in NHS commissioning and worsening inequalities in accessing wax management services. We also called on the NHS to commission wax management services so people get the right support from the right place at the right time. Therefore, we fully support the RNID call to action for the NHS in England to follow NICE guidelines and commission ear wax management services locally."

He added: "NHS commissioners too often underestimate the impacts of excessive ear wax. While people who fund their own care might pay between £50 and £100, removing ear wax in hospital settings can cost the NHS - and, therefore, the taxpayer - more. That is why we fully endorse NICE's recommendations on ear wax management and call for NHS patients to have access to a primary care audiology service that also manages impacted ear wax. It will be a win for patients, the NHS and taxpayers."