New hearing health service in local pharmacies
Through the pilot scheme, 20 community pharmacies are offering assessments, hearing screening and earwax removal to suitable patients using the Tympa System, free on the NHS.
The aim of the pilot is to detect any issues quickly and reduce waiting times, while taking pressure off GP practices and hospitals. The Tympa System enables trained pharmacy staff to see inside the ear on a screen the size of a smartphone and, if necessary, remove excess earwax using micro-suction. Screening hearing tests can also be carried out using the device.
If problems are detected, patients are referred on, via their GP, to hospital audiology and ENT departments. People who wish to use the service must ask their GP practice for a referral. However, they don’t need to be seen by a practice nurse or GP before attending.
