We provide medical assessment and treatment of patients with non-complicated ear, nose and throat conditions.

Based at community hospitals and clinics across Dorset, our specialist staff can offer help with problems such as:

  • hearing loss
  • ear infections
  • vertigo and balance problems
  • severe ear wax (where treatments provided by your own GP practice have not resolved the problem)
  • sleep apnea and snoring
  • persistent sore throat and swallowing problems.

This is a referral-only service, if you would like to access these services, please speak to your GP.

Expected waiting time for this service

Our current waiting times for the community ENT service (for first assessment appointments) is:

  • 32-36 weeks for ears
  • 18 weeks for nose and throat.

Key information about this service

Many of our patients do not need regular follow-up appointments with our clinicians. Instead, some patients are offered 'patient initiated follow-up' (PIFU) appointments. This means you can arrange a follow-up appointment as and when you need it.

Your referral will be left open with the service for six months after your last appointment date, after this time you may need a new referral from your GP or health care professional to access the service.

The clinician responsible for your care will tell you what symptoms or complications after treatment to look out for, that would mean you should make an appointment. They will also provide you with the information you need on how to contact the service.