Ear wax removal and hearing aids in Harborne
Ears feeling blocked, or struggling to hear conversations on Harborne High Street? Harborne has several hearing clinics within walking distance, and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital is just down the road. This guide explains what's free on the NHS, what you'll pay privately, and where to go.
Quick answer: Some Harborne GP practices, including Harborne Medical, don't remove ear wax, so most people use a private clinic. One local clinic lists £40 for one ear and £60 for both. For hearing loss, free NHS hearing tests are available nearby at Specsavers on Harborne High Street and Boots on Hagley Road. First-time NHS hearing aid referrals go through your GP.
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Ear wax removal in Harborne
Try oil drops first
The NHS advises 2 to 3 drops of olive or almond oil, 3 to 4 times a day, for 3 to 5 days. Don't use cotton buds, and don't use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum.
Will my Harborne GP remove ear wax?
Harborne Medical states that ear wax removal is not available at the practice and is offered privately by other providers. The NHS says not all GP surgeries remove ear wax, so if you're registered elsewhere, ask your own practice.
Private ear wax removal in Harborne
Harborne has an unusually large choice of ear care within a short walk of the High Street: independent audiologists, opticians with hearing clinics, and private clinics. Most offer microsuction, and some also offer irrigation.
- Typical local price: one Harborne clinic lists £40 for one ear, £60 for both, plus a £25 examination fee if no wax needs removing.
- Wider guide: private removal in England typically costs £50–£100.
- Home visits: mobile practitioners cover Harborne and the rest of south and west Birmingham.
See a doctor instead if you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Contact your GP or NHS 111.
Hearing tests and hearing aids in Harborne
Free NHS hearing tests nearby
Harborne Medical lists these free NHS hearing test locations, and advises contacting them directly to book:
| Provider | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Specsavers | 136 High Street, Harborne, B17 9NN | 0121 426 0810 |
| Boots Hearingcare | 235–237 Hagley Road, B16 9RR | 0345 270 1600 |
NHS hearing aids in Birmingham
NHS Birmingham and Solihull says a first-time referral for hearing aids should come through your GP. You can choose your provider from several community audiology services, and your GP can advise on locations. Since the age threshold was lowered from 55, adults aged 18 and over registered with a local practice are eligible.
If your current NHS hearing aids still work, you shouldn't need a full reassessment. You should be reviewed annually unless your needs change.
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital audiology centre
The QE Audiology Centre is at Nuffield House, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, B15 2TH (0121 371 7100), very close to Harborne.
- New community referrals: it stopped taking these in October 2019.
- Existing patients: can continue to be reviewed and supported.
- Repairs: there's no walk-in service any more. Book through reception, or use drop-off and postal repairs.
Private hearing care
Several independent audiologists and optician chains in Harborne offer free hearing tests and private hearing aids, typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair. Home hearing tests are also available in the area.
| NHS | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free for adults | Typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair |
| How to start | GP referral (first-time hearing aids) | Book directly |
| Choice of provider | Choose from local community providers | Any provider |
| Choice of devices | NHS digital range | Wider range, including rechargeable and nearly invisible styles |
Help for older people and families in Harborne
- Alerts at home: visual and vibrating doorbell, phone and smoke alarms help if you can't hear them.
- If stairs are also becoming difficult, see our guide to stairlifts in Birmingham.
Areas we cover around Harborne
Harborne and the surrounding area, including Edgbaston, Quinton, Bearwood, Selly Oak, Weoley Castle, Bartley Green, Bournville and Ladywood, plus Smethwick and the rest of south and west Birmingham.
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Please note: This is a general guide, not medical advice. Services, referral routes and prices change, so check with your GP practice or the provider before booking.