Can a pharmacy remove ear wax?

Why pharmacies took this on

Ear wax removal used to be a routine GP service, but most NHS practices in England have stopped offering it — it's now classed in most areas as a service GPs aren't funded to provide. That left a genuine gap: people with blocked ears were being told to buy drops and hope, or to seek private care. Community pharmacies were a natural fit to fill it. They're regulated clinical premises, they're on the high street, and appointments don't depend on a referral or a waiting list.

To be clear, not every pharmacy does this. Ear wax removal is a separate clinical service that needs specific training and equipment — it's not something dispensed over the counter.

What to check before you book anywhere

Wherever you go — pharmacy, private clinic or audiologist — the same checks apply:

• Regulated premises. A pharmacy should be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council; you can look any pharmacy up on the GPhC's public register.
• A named, qualified clinician who has completed ear care training — not just "staff".
• The method used. Microsuction under direct vision is the approach ENT departments use; be wary of anywhere still offering blind water syringing as the default.
• An examination-first policy. A good clinic looks before it removes, and is willing to tell you if there's nothing to remove.

How it works at Crewe Pharmacy

Our ear clinic runs from Crewe Pharmacy at 139-141 Nantwich Road — GPhC registered premises number 1029608, with Muhammad Usman Shafique as superintendent pharmacist. Every appointment starts with an examination of both ears under magnification, included in the price of £50 for one ear or £70 for both. If wax is confirmed, it's removed by water-free microsuction; if we find little or none, we explain what we can see, advise on next steps and discuss it with you before anything proceeds. Most people are seen within the same week — book online or call 01270 215837. A couple of days of olive oil drops beforehand makes removal quicker and more comfortable.