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Between November 2023 and January 2024, our short survey asked people to share their experiences of seeking advice or treatment for an earwax problem in the last two years.

We wanted to learn about the effects of earwax build up on people’s physical and mental health, how clear and easy it was to obtain treatment and the experiences of different forms of treatment.

People were able to complete the survey online, in print or over the phone and 115 gave us their feedback.

We regularly review the experiences you told us through public events, surveys, Feedback Centre and Information & Signposting enquiries.

Healthwatch uses your feedback with health and care decision-makers to seek a positive difference, and this document sets out the issues you raised and any changes you have helped us to deliver during May 2024.

Introduction

We are delighted to share ‘The value of listening’, our Annual Report for 2023-24.

It highlights how we have listened to the voices of the public, patients and partners and used people’s feedback, experiences and preferences to help shape health and social care in East Sussex, and across Sussex.

We have undertaken a range of projects and initiatives over the last 12 months to engage with a diverse range of individuals and communities living in different areas of East Sussex, and worked hard to share these experiences and preferences on health and care services with commissioners and providers so that they focus on meeting the needs of local people.

Read our report here 

In May 2024, Healthwatch in Sussex sought experiences of being seen by a Physician’s Associate.

A Physician Associate supports doctors in the diagnosis and management of patients. A detailed explanation of a Physician Associate is available on the NHS website.