Written question asked by Bradley Thomas (Conservative) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Karin Smyth (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Earwax: Medical Treatments

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps her Department is taking to (a) ensure that earwax removal providers are regulated professionals and (b) improve awareness of regulated providers; and what consideration her Department has given to introducing a model that supports patient safety without excessive regulation for qualified healthcare professionals.

Answer: Ear wax removal is considered to be a regulated activity that falls within the scope of regulation by Care Quality Commission if the following criteria are met: the person and a listed healthcare professional both agree there is a problem that needs an intervention; and the treatment is carried out by a listed healthcare professional. The Government would encourage anyone accessing ear wax removal services to choose a professional that is a member of a statutorily regulated profession or registered with a voluntary accredited register listed on the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care website.

Secondary information