In England, ear wax removal is not a regulated industry, meaning that anyone can perform this clinical procedure—even though it carries risks such as perforated eardrums and infections.
Recent media reports highlight that a growing number of non-medical professionals, including ambulance drivers and hairdressers, are now offering wax removal services. This makes it more important than ever to ensure that the person performing ear wax removal or hearing checks on you or your loved ones is properly qualified.
At Click Hearing, we provide ear wax removal (EWR) services for people of all ages, including children. All our clinicians are fully qualified, and Click Hearing is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
To help you make an informed decision and stay safe, we’ve put together a checklist of essential questions to ask before booking an appointment. Even if just one of these is unanswered or unclear, you may want to reconsider your choice of provider.
Why Standards in Ear Wax Removal Matter
The Aural Care Community of Interest (ACCI), established by the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) and the National Aural Care Strategy Group (NACSG), was created to address concerns about patient safety in ear wax removal. These concerns include:
- The rise of unregulated providers performing ear wax removal without proper training
- Inconsistent education standards for practitioners
- Inequitable access to safe and effective aural care
The ACCI is working to develop professional standards, promote best practices, and ensure that patients receive safe, evidence-based treatment. By choosing a provider who aligns with these principles, you can be confident in receiving high-quality care.
Key Checks for Choosing a Safe and Qualified Provider
- Are they a registered healthcare professional?
Ensure that the person performing EWR is actively registered with a professional regulatory body, such as:- Nurses (NMC Register)
- Doctors (GMC Register)
- Audiologists (HCPC Register)
You can ask for evidence or search their name on their professional register.
- Have they completed EWR training with a reputable provider?
The training provider should exclusively train healthcare professionals in EWR. The AHCS recommends that aural care providers undergo accredited training that meets national safety standards. Ask for proof of certification or verify their training provider. - Do they have clinical experience in the procedures they offer?
Experience in techniques such as microsuction, water irrigation, and manual instrumentation is crucial.- If they treat children, do they have specific experience in paediatric EWR? Ask for confirmation.
- Are they working for a CQC-registered provider?
Companies regulated by the CQC are held to high standards of safety and care. You can check their registration on the CQC website. - Do they follow AHCS and BSA best practices?
The AHCS Aural Care Community of Interest and the British Society of Audiology (BSA) provide best-practice guidance for safe EWR. Ask if the provider follows the latest recommendations. - Do they have professional insurance and background checks?
- Are they insured for professional malpractice and indemnity?
- Are they DBS-checked (enhanced)?
- Is the company insured for public liability and ICO registered?
- Always ask for confirmation
Useful Resources
To verify a provider’s credentials, visit these websites:
