Grommet check-ups on the NHS?

[Schulte]

DD2 had grommets put in in December - privately. We are supposed to come back in June for a check-up to make sure they are still in place and working properly, but DH has changed jobs and therefore we had to change health insurers too. So DD's ear problems aren't covered any more (pre-existing conditions are excluded). I asked useless locum GP if they did grommet check-ups on the NHS but she seemed to think that once the grommets are in, you just leave the child to it. Is this true? Is it worth me paying for a private check-up?

[BoattoBolivia]

No, my dd has had 2 lots of grommets on the NHS and we have had regular check ups afterwards both times. I think it was about 6 months, but not sure as they keep postponing appointments!

[AlmightyCitrus]

My DD had grommets and we didn't get a check up. I did ask but was told that as long as I thought they were helping they didn't need to see her again.

Might be worth looking up the hearing clinic and asking them first, before making a private appointment

Different areas will have different policies.

[LisMcA]

I had grommets as a child and if my memory serve me correct I had a check up every 3 months (they were in for just over 2 years). Speak to your GP again and ask them to refer you to the ENT specialist at the hospital. My grommets were meant to fall out on their own, but they got stuck so I had to get them removed under a GA. They can sometimes move on their own and cause pain, so I think a check up might be needed if your DC shows any signs of being in pain.

[going]

You could ask your gp to check if they are still in place. My daughters ones are stuck so need to get her seen by ent again!

[tiger66]

I have 2 boys with grometts. They have check ups every 4-6 months. My oldest is having his out along with his tonsils and adenoids as they have been in for 2 years. The youngest has fallen out in 1 ear already.

Definitely push for a follow up.

[DeWe]

Ds had a 6 week check up, and, as they look fine, will be seen in 1 year. After that, if last time was anything to go by, they'll be looking at checking every 3-4 months depending on how likely they look to fall out. If he gets ear infections or the grommets come out, or any concerns I can either phone up for an ENT appointment, or ask the GP to refer him.