Conclusion
Conclusion
Community pharmacists have already shown that they are capable of conducting ear examinations, assessing whether onward referral is needed, and offering treatment and management advice for acute otitis media.
A logical next step is the extension of community pharmacy involvement in ear health to the benefit of patients who currently have long waits to access assessment for suspected hearing loss and treatment for impacted earwax. This CPD module will help pharmacy teams to prepare for future service opportunities in this field.
Resources for patients with persistent or suspected hearing loss
- NHS Health A-Z. Hearing loss: nhs.uk/conditions/hearing-loss
- Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID): rnid.org.uk. Also C2Hear online, a resource on using hearing aids: c2hearonline.com
- Age UK information and advice: Hearing loss:
ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/conditions-illnesses/hearing-loss - Hearing link – a charity helping with the management of hearing loss: hearinglink.org
- National Association of Deafened People: nadp.org.uk
Further reading
NICE guideline [NG98]. Hearing loss in adults: assessment and management: nice.org.uk/guidance/ng98
ENT UK clinical guidance on microsuction: baaudiology.org/app/uploads/2024/12/clinical_guidance_on_microsuction.pdf