Asda has introduced a new health service across 226 of its UK stores, offering a quick and affordable solution for customers struggling to book GP appointments. According to Express.co.uk, the supermarket chain has launched the country’s first Adult Earache Service, providing same-day ear health checks through its in-store pharmacies.
Priced at £25, the service allows customers aged 18 and over to receive an examination from a qualified Asda pharmacist without needing to visit a doctor. The goal is to ease pressure on the NHS, ensuring that patients with minor conditions receive fast and effective treatment.
How the New Earache Service Works
Customers can book an appointment in-store or online for a same-day consultation. During the visit, an Asda pharmacist will use an otoscope to check for Acute Otitis Media, a common ear infection. If necessary, the pharmacist can provide prescription drops at no extra cost.
For more severe cases, pharmacists will refer patients directly to NHS services, preventing unnecessary delays in treatment.
Faisal Tuddy, Head of Pharmacy at Asda, explained the importance of this new service:
“We’ve been listening to our patients, and we know that ear health is something many people don’t prioritise until an issue arises, but it’s vital to check your ears regularly. By introducing this service at such an affordable price, we aim to make ear health more accessible for everyone, and help our customers spot any problems before they become more serious.”
Expanding Access to Ear Health
The Adult Earache Service follows the success of Asda’s under-18s earache service, which launched last year and has already helped 8,500 young patients.
Asda anticipates that its new service for adults will further reduce the burden on the NHS, as many patients currently face long wait times for routine check-ups. With Asda pharmacies offering walk-in and pre-booked appointments, customers now have a faster alternative to GP visits.
This latest expansion reflects Asda’s growing role in healthcare, providing accessible and affordable services within its stores.
