Conclusion

In some parts of the UK, community pharmacists already either supply POM treatments for OE through a PGD (NHS or private) or prescribe under locally commissioned arrangements. In Wales, otitis externa is included in the Pharmacist Independent Prescribing Service.

There is scope for wider community pharmacist involvement in treating acute otitis externa and advising about prevention of future episodes.

Further reading

• Patient article for professionals. Otitis externa and painful, discharging ears: patient.info/doctor/otitis-externa-and-painful-discharging-ears
• NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries. Otitis externa: cks.nice.org.uk/topics/otitis-externa
• Jackson EA and Geer K. Am Fam Physician. 2023; 107(2): 145-151. Acute Otitis Externa: Rapid Evidence Review: aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2023/0200/acute-otitis-externa.html
• NHS Inform (Scotland). Outer ear infection (otitis externa): nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/ears-nose-and-throat/otitis-externa.