Private ear health services

To deliver a private ear pain service for individuals who are 18 years and over in England, and those without access to an NHS service in other UK nations. Pharmacies should consider using a PGD which enables the supply of Otigo after appropriate assessment of the person. You will need to seek appropriate training, if staff are not already suitably trained.

Independent Prescribers who are appropriately trained in otoscopy and the assessment of ear infections, and who are working within their scope of practice, may also be able to prescribe and supply antibiotics where clinically indicated.

Benefits of providing the service:

• Use existing otoscopy skills

• High patient demand as GP appointments are limited

• Can be offered privately as a fee-generating service

• Builds your clinical profile in the local community

• Quick to deliver with appropriate training and equipment

With limited access to ear wax removal services in GP practices, pharmacies are ideally placed to provide this service privately. Training and equipment can be sourced from NPA Trusted partners Tympa Health and Clear Clinics. These services consultations can be conducted by suitably trained members of pharmacy staff, alleviating pressure on the pharmacist, who can deliver other services.

Benefits of providing the service:

• High patient demand as GP provision declines

• Can be offered privately as a fee-generating service

• Builds your clinical profile in the local community

• Quick to deliver with appropriate training and equipment

You can increase access and ease of hearing checks to patients in your community by providing hearing assessment services. Some devices such as the one used by NPA Trusted partner Tympa Health include the following benefits:

• Supports early identification of hearing loss

• Ideal for patients aged 55 and over

• Strengthens onward referral pathways to audiology

• Enhances your reputation as a comprehensive ear health provider