A consultation where a specifically trained pharmacist examines your symptoms and, if appropriate, provides or prescribes treatment for an uncomplicated ear infection under their expanded scope of practice authority.

Common signs of an ear infection include:

• Ear pain or a feeling of fullness
• Reduced hearing on the affected side
• Discharge from the ear (outer-ear infections)
• Mild fever

Key benefits:

• Fast access without waiting for a same-day GP appointment
• Treatment on the spot in many cases
• A comfortable option for both adults and eligible children

This service may be suitable if you:

• You or your child has any of the signs above
• Are within the consultation’s eligible age range

This isn’t suitable for infections with complications, discharge with certain features, recurrent infections, or in very young infants.

Ear infections are assessed case by case, and what’s appropriate depends on your specific presentation on the day.

Your pharmacist will assess your individual suitability, including your relevant medical history and current symptoms, before proceeding. 

This consultation is for uncomplicated ear infections only; complicated, recurrent presentations, or infections in very young infants need assessment by a GP. 

Ask your pharmacist for the relevant Consumer Medicines Information (CMI) if a medicine is provided.

Before YourConsultation

Be prepared to discuss:

• Your (or your child’s) earsymptoms and how long they’ve lasted
• Any discharge or hearingchanges
• Any medicines you are currentlytaking

During YourConsultation

Your pharmacist will discuss your symptoms and, where appropriate,examine your ear before determining whether treatment can be provided.

The consultation may also include a prescribed treatment plan whereappropriate, or a referral to your GP if your presentation is outside scope.

Can this be used for children?

Yes, above the program's eligible minimum age - very young infants should be assessed by a GP instead.

What if the infection keeps coming back?

Recurrent infections are outside the scope of this consultation and need GP assessment.

Does this cover both middle-ear and outer-ear infections?

Yes, this consultation covers both presentations - your pharmacist will assess which applies to you.