Aural Care Service Referral Information

This guideline applies to adults aged 18 years and over.

Advice and Guidance

To discuss a patient, please email rcht.auralcareservice@nhs.net. There is no formal Advice and Guidance service.

Referral

Inclusion criteria

Adults aged 18 years and over with a discharging ear(s) in the absence of red flag features. Examples of conditions treated, include:

Troublesome ear wax
- Access-based criteria apply. NHS Kernow has a strict commissioning policy for removal of ear wax in secondary care. Any referrals that do not meet the criteria, will be returned. See guideline on Troublesome Ear Wax for further information.
Active otitis externa and discharging ears
Suspected cholesteatoma
Known cholesteatoma for ongoing non-surgical management
Perforation of ear drum with active infection

Exclusion criteria

Children and adolescents aged younger than 18 years
Referral for hearing test
Removal of ear wax:
- Not meeting inclusion criteria
- For audiology purposes
- Due to unsuccessful private removal attempt, or lack of affordability

Minimum required information

Patient symptoms and examination findings
Results of any relevant investigations
Whether patient is known to ENT services
If referring for troublesome ear wax, confirmation that:
- the full course of recommended drops has been completed
- contraindications to irrigation

Individual Funding Request (IFR)

If the referral criteria are not met and you think the patient has an exceptional or unique clinical need, then you may wish to consider an IFR.

References

NHS Cornwall ICB Treatment Policies

Page Review Information