Former midwives Emma Pursey and Kirstin Appleton have expressed concerns about an increase in "unregulated" ear wax removal care since the NHS withdrew the service as a free GP offering in 2019. They operate a new weekly in-clinic service in Westbury, Wiltshire.
The RNID, a charity supporting people with hearing issues, estimates that 2.2 million people each year struggle with problems related to ear wax. The charity has called on NHS England to collaborate with Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to reinstate free ear wax removal services.
Attempting to remove ear wax independently can lead to serious complications, including infections, permanent ear damage, or hearing loss. The RNID found that two in five individuals are unable to afford private ear wax removal, which can typically cost between £55 and £100.
Pursey and Appleton, who charge for their service, stated they have kept costs "as low as possible." They noted a "real need" for safe removal options, observing that many people have struggled without treatment since the NHS service ceased.