Joy Ear Care: “I think there is a great need for this service”

We spoke to Harshni Shah at Joy Earcare, who recently introduced microsuction wax removal services in her community.

How did you start your journey using the Tympa System?

I work in an independent chemist, and we started to offer the service for our local community who could not get to see a doctor or nurse for an appointment to have their ear wax removed.

They have a long waiting time of almost three months before they can get offered an appointment, so I decided it was important to offer this as a service to them whereby they can just drop into the pharmacy, and we can offer them either same day appointment or next day.

Patients generally find it easier to walk into pharmacies than going through GP surgeries. Also, it is a good service for the pharmacy sector to undertake as it unloads the burden for the GP surgeries when they can concentrate on other things.

As someone who works in the pharmacy sector, what made you decide to start your new business?

After offering the service at the pharmacy, I quickly realised that there’s more and more need for this service to be readily available. 1 in 5 adults in the UK alone suffer with hearing loss. Patients with hearing issues have low self-esteem, low confidence level, social disorders and high levels of anxiety.

If this service can help them hear more clearly quicker rather than waiting for a few months before they can get an appointment at the surgery, then why not offer this service.

I decided to start this as my own business whereby I can concentrate more on this part of the health sector. I provide otscopy services, whereby I check the general health of both ears, microsuction earwax removal via suction unit, as well as a hearing check. I also offer home visits whereby patients who may be elderly, housebound or disabled are not neglected from receiving this service.

What made our product or service stand out from other options?

The Tympa System is very user-friendly device to use. It has everything in one device, so not much to carry around if you are doing a home visit. Also, a good thing is the the Remote Review feature, where Audiologists and ENT surgeons are there to help you if you have any questions.

What has been your favourite thing about using the Tympa device?

Being able to record and see the before and after pictures/videos of patient’s ears is definitely a bonus and I am able to show the patients the benefits of having their ears looked at.

How did you find the training provided by TympaHealth?

Absolutely incredible! All the trainers were lovely and made me feel so comfortable. They are always there to help you any time you need help. They are patient and put you at ease and also work alongside you throughout your journey.

What are your plans for the future? 

I definitely wish to expand my services and take this up full time. I think there is a great need for this sort of service as the numbers of patients with hearing aids and general hearing loss rises.

I really enjoy working closely with patients and find it greatly satisfying seeing that it makes a difference for them. During one of my home visit appointments, a patient felt “we feel the hearing sector is being neglected by GP surgeries, there is not much help out there for us.” Hearing these sorts of comments definitely makes me want to be out there and helping people who feel they are being neglected.

Any advice for others starting out on their Tympa journey?

I definitely recommend TympaHealth! All the trainers are lovely people, the programme is very organised and you will not regret your decision!

For more information on Harshni Shah’s Tympa service at Joy Earcare, visit her Facebook & Instagram pages.