From 1st April 2025, GP practices in Lincolnshire will no longer provide ear syringing as a treatment for ear wax removal.

Why has this change happened?

Ear syringing has been linked to risks such as infections and ear canal damage. National guidance now recommends self-care and safer alternatives, for example microsuction.

The ICB has informed GP practices based in the east and west of the county that ear syringing will no longer be funded from 1st April 2025, as it is not considered safe or a core service for general practice to provide. Ear syringing has not been provided by practices in the south and south-west of the county for a number of years.

If you feel you will be impacted by this change, you should contact the NHS Lincolnshire ICB Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):

Telephone: 0300 123 9553

Email: LHNT.LincsPALS@nhs.net

The service is open 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday (Except Bank Holidays).

What should you do if you have ear wax build-up?

Try self-care first – Many cases of ear wax build-up can be managed at home using over-the-counter treatments such as ear drops. Your local community pharmacy can provide advice on the best options.

If self-care doesn’t work – If self-care doesn’t work your GP practice can assess your symptoms and refer eligible patients who meet the criteria to alternative NHS services for ear wax removal.

Private treatment options – If you are not eligible for NHS treatment because you do not meet the criteria, you can arrange private ear wax removal through providers such as Boots or Specsavers (fees apply).

More information about ear wax removal

There is more information available on the NHS website.