Also, the number of referrals to hospital ENT departments and/or secondary care audiology departments has increased considerably and is not in line with the prudent health care principles underpinning our national plans (‘A Healthier Wales’, ‘Framework of Action’ and new Primary Care Model). In recent years, concern has been raised about the procedure used to treat ear wax problems and patient safety. Wax management is not explicitly part of the GP contract - some GP practices have traditionally provided services while others have simply referred all patients with ear wax symptoms to hospital ENT departments. Historical treatment: Health boards are responsible for providing ear wax management services. The Hearing Project Board was established to oversee implementation of the recommendations, including development of a national pathway for ear wax management. The Framework commits all stakeholders to work together to improve services and provide high-quality care and support for citizens across Wales. The Welsh Government launched the Framework of Action for People who are deaf or living with Hearing Loss in May 2017. compliance with NICE guidance and Audiology Quality Standards.

self-management where clinically appropriate, empowering people to better manage their own care.consistent seamless management across primary, community and secondary care settings.efficient and effective use of NHS resources, cost effective and prudent.Develop a national integrated pathway for the safe and effective management of ear wax to provide consistent patient outcomes across Wales and ensure:.Determine and report on current service provision across Wales.The group completed its remit and the following objectives have been met: Unresolved and troublesome ear wax is a relatively easy health condition to address through removal by trained professionals however, NHS Wales currently has no consistent national pathway for ear wax management in line with NICE guidance (NICE 2016).Ī Task and Finish Group was established to ensure all citizens across Wales can access the most appropriate treatment and support for ear wax problems, in line with the Welsh Government’s ‘ A Healthier Wales’ plan, the ‘ Hearing Framework of Action’ and the new Primary Care Model, underpinned by the principles of prudent healthcare. Ear wax (cerumen) is a common and significant health complaint, specifically significant for people with pre-existing hearing loss as it compounds their communication difficulties.

Parts of the ear practice test