Somerset Ear Microsuction

Ratings

• Overall

  Good

• Safe

  Good

• Effective

  Good

• Caring

  Good

• Responsive

  Good

• Well-led

  Good

Our view of the service

Date of Assessment: 17 July 2026.

Somerset Ear Microsuction is an independent health service. It provides a private ear wax removal service by microsuction. People can access the service on a fee-paying basis but the service also accepts referrals for NHS patients. The service is provided in a treatment room within a GP service in Somerset. The service runs as a partnership and is provided by two paramedics who are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) (HCPC regulates health and care professionals, including paramedics, to make sure they practise safely and professionally.). The service does not employ any other staff. The service provides care and treatment to both children and adults.

SAFE: The service had a good learning culture and people could raise concerns. People were protected and kept safe. The service worked with the premises in which they operated to understand potential risks in relation to fire. The facilities and equipment met the needs of people, were clean and well-maintained and risks were mitigated. There were enough staff with the right skills, qualifications and experience. Staff received training to maintain high-quality care. However, the service had not ensured they were aware of health and safety risks in the care environment.

EFFECTIVE: People were involved in assessments of their needs. Staff reviewed assessments taking account of people’s communication, personal and health needs. Care was based on latest evidence and good practice. Staff worked with all agencies involved in people’s care for the best outcomes and smooth transitions when moving services. Staff made sure people understood their care and treatment to enable them to give informed consent.

CARING: People were treated with kindness and compassion. Staff protected their privacy and dignity. They treated them as individuals and supported their preferences. People had choice in their care and treatment. The service supported staff wellbeing.

RESPONSIVE: People were involved in decisions about their care. The service provided information people could understand. People knew how to give feedback and were confident the service took it seriously and acted on it. The service was easy to access and worked to eliminate discrimination.

WELL-LED: The service had a shared vision and culture based on listening, learning and trust. Leaders were visible, knowledgeable and supportive. Staff understood their roles and responsibilities. There was a culture of continuous improvement.

People's experience of this service

Over the past 12 months, we received feedback from 12 people who used their service through our Give Feedback on Care facility. The feedback was all positive. People described staff being professional and friendly, ensuring they were comfortable and at ease during procedures. They expressed satisfaction with the care and treatment provided, stating that the staff explained procedures and after care clearly.