Overview

They do ear wax removal using microsuction. There are several different locations in Cornwall, but I use the St Columb Major clinic. You can book online but we call so we can discuss wheelchair access. There are a few rooms and some are more accessible than others so we like to confirm over the phone. They do an examination of your ears to check everything is healthy, and they'll only suction them if they need doing. It's quick and painless, just a bit noisy. I know several people who have their ears suctioned and they're absolutely fine with it. I'm quite nervous about having it done, I don't like the noise. The practitioner (I always see Bridget) is really good at making sure I'm OK and doing everything she can to make me comfortable. She is very kind and reassuring. Access into the building is OK, but you might need assistance from whoever you’re with, or the clinic staff. There's a dropped kerb right outside. The outer door of the Clinic is a double door, you need both open to let a wheelchair through. In the summer these doors are usually open, however. Inside there is another door which should be operated by a push button but the button does not currently work and has not done for some time. So you need help opening this door too. Inside is a wide, gentle slope up to the reception area, perfect for wheelchairs. There is another button inside the building to open the inner door and this one does work. But, of course, you still need help opening the outer doors in winter. The upshot is that you need to let them know in advance that you are coming so that they can be prepared to help you, which they are very happy to do. The treatment room that I was in is just off the reception area. There are other rooms that are less accessible but Bridget knew about my wheelchair access needs. She arranged the treatment room to allow my wheelchair to easily manoeuvre. The only negative is the location and parking.

Transport & Parking

The parking is really difficult. It's located in the middle of the town and there are narrow pavements, narrow roads and a one way system. The clinic doesn't have its own car park. There are a few places to park about 50 yards away. But then you have to negotiate the narrow pavements which are completely unsuitable for wheelchairs. What we do is use the on-road parking on the other side of the junction from the Clinic. If you have a blue badge you should be able to get away with parking on the double yellow lines provided you don't park too near the junction.

Access

Entering the building you might need help with the doors, but the staff are more than happy to help if they know you're coming. Access inside is good.

Toilets

There is a toilet but it doesn't have much in the way of disabled facilities. The room is quite big though.

Staff

I always see Bridget. She's lovely.

Photos