Action is needed to improve access to earwax removal and regulation to ensure patients can access high-quality care closer to home. That’s a key recommendation from the 2025 access to care report, published by Specsavers, which sets out both challenges and opportunities facing the community audiology sector.   

Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers, says: ‘Wax build-up can affect the results of hearing tests and delay device fittings. NHS access is limited as many GPs and other providers have withdrawn services.   

‘This unregulated area risks poor care from unqualified providers, especially affecting those with limited dexterity unable to self-treat.’  

He adds that the charity RNID reports that 2.3 million people need earwax removal yearly, yet more than eight million lack NHS access due to service gaps across many Integrated Care Board areas.  

‘Wax removal is intrusive yet unregulated. NICE recommends wax removal in primary or community care to reduce hospital use and unsafe services. Patients must be protected - guidance is not enough. 

He adds that commissioning it as an Any Qualified Provider service would enable commissioners to set standards. 

Read the full report now: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/reports/access-to-care-2025