Signs and Symptoms

Following the removal of any ear wax:

• Adults with non-fluctuating hearing loss of gradual onset with normal appearance of canals and tympanic membranes to be referred to audiology.

If patients present with any of the following please refer to ENT:

• Sudden hearing loss (to be discussed with on call ENT team)
• Pulsatile tinnitus
• Vertigo
• Pain in the ears
• Discharging ears
• Abnormality of ear drum
• Facial palsy (lower motor neurone)

Please see Referral section below for e-Referral Service selection information.

Referral Criteria

Refer to ENT

• Patients with the above indications

Refer to audiology

• Patients who do not meet the AQP pathway but do not require ENT referral

Referral Instructions

Referral to ENT

e-Referral Service

• Speciality: ENT
• Clinic type: Ear
• Service: DRSS-South Devon & Torbay-Ear Nose and Throat- Devon ICB -15N

Referrals to audiology (Non AQP)

e-Referral Service

• Specialty: Diagnostic physiological measurements
• Clinic: Audiology
• Service: DRSS-South Devon & Torbay-Audiology (ENT)- Devon ICB - 15N

Referrals to AQP Audiology

e-Referral Service

• Specialty: Diagnostic physiological measurements
• Clinic: Audiology
• Service: DRSS-South Devon & Torbay-Audiology (ENT)- Devon ICB - 15N

AQP referrals must be on the AQP referral form

Referral Forms

Torbay and South Devon seeking advice form

AQP Referral Form (word document)

Microsuction referral form

Patient Information

The ear, hearing and balance – patient leaflet - check

Pathway Group

This guideline has been signed off on behalf of NHS Devon.

Publication date: November 2017