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Written question asked by Catherine West (Labour) on Monday, 13 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 July 2026. It was answered by Karin Smyth (Labour) on Friday, 17 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Hearing: Medical Treatments and Testing

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to improve access to (a) ear wax removal services and (b) hearing test appointments on the NHS.

Answer

Integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning ear wax removal and audiology services that meet the needs of their local populations, taking account of relevant national guidance and local service arrangements.

NHS England is supporting ICBs and provider organisations to improve performance and reduce waiting lists for appointments and assessments for hearing services. This includes capital investment to upgrade audiology facilities in National Health Service trusts, expanding audiology testing capacity via community diagnostic centres, and direct support through a national audiology improvement collaborative.

Further, through the Medium Term Planning Framework, we have set a clear target for systems to reduce long waits for community health services. By 2028/29 at least 80% of community health services activity should take place within 18 weeks, including community audiology activity.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
18081
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Medical treatments Testing Hearing Earwax
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk