For nearly three decades, Des Dhesi has been a familiar face in Welling and Bexleyheath as the owner of Falconwood Pharmacy. Since 1995, he has dedicated himself to serving the local community with trusted pharmacy care and advice. But as government funding for pharmacies declined and competition from online providers increased, Des found himself facing a difficult reality: many pharmacies across the UK were shutting their doors permanently. Determined to adapt and ensure Falconwood Pharmacy remained a vital part of the community, Des explored new services to sustain the business.
In 2018, he ventured into ear microsuction by completing a course at the Rotherham Ear Care Centre, enabling him to offer ear wax removal services directly from the pharmacy. A service which is much needed and very popular today.
Taking a Risk on a New Service
The early days of this new venture were a leap of faith. Des faced questions like: Would people even know about ear wax removal services? Could they trust a pharmacy instead of a GP for such treatments? Was the investment in specialist equipment worth it?
Despite the uncertainties, Des pushed forward, purchasing the necessary equipment and launching the Welling Ear Wax Clinic —initially operating out of the kitchen at the back of the pharmacy!
“I admit, my confidence wasn’t sky-high at first,” Des recalls. “I had limited knowledge of ear anatomy and the intricacies of hearing. But I was determined to keep learning and finding ways to help more customers with their hearing challenges.”
With upgraded equipment and growing expertise, Des gradually built his confidence and began to see greater potential of this important service.
An Unexpected Opportunity During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic turned the world upside down in 2020, forcing the closure of many essential services, including audiology clinics. Pharmacies however were among the few businesses allowed to remain open. Falconwood Pharmacy unexpectedly became the only local provider of ear microsuction services, and demand soared.
With a busy diary, Des realized his initial training wasn’t sufficient for addressing the more complex cases he encountered. This led him to seek further opportunities for increasing his knowledge and expertise, and he found himself applying to study a prestigious MSc in Audiological Science program at University College London (UCL).
A New Chapter: Audiology Studies
To his surprise, Des was accepted into UCL’s program. The rigorous two-year course tested his limits, but his passion and determination saw him succeed. “Being a mature student had its perks,” Des jokes. “I approached the coursework with focus and life experience that helped me to really thrive.”
Now in the final stages of his journey, Des is completing his clinical placement at Medway Maritime Hospital in Kent.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Audiology Services
Des is excited about the future of Falconwood Pharmacy, Welling Ear Clinic and the Medway Ear Clinic. Once he achieves official registration as an HCPC audiologist and healthcare scientist, he plans to expand his offerings significantly.
Here’s what’s in store:
- Hearing Assessments: Providing professional hearing tests for adults and children.
- Hearing Aids: Supplying, fitting, and servicing hearing aids tailored to individual needs.
- Balance and Tinnitus Assessments: Helping patients manage complex conditions like dizziness and tinnitus.
- Continuing Micro-Suction Services: Bringing advanced audiology expertise to his ear wax removal clinics.
As Des continues his journey, he plans to share regular updates about his progress and the growing range of services available at the Welling Ear Clinic and The Medway Ear Clinic. Whether you’re a long-time customer or someone interested in hearing health, stay tuned—big changes are on the horizon.
Follow Des’s Journey, keep up with Des’s story as he transitions from pharmacist to audiologist.
Book Ear Wax Removal With Us
For now, if ear wax microsuction is what you need, the Welling and Medway Ear Wax Clinics are here to help. If you have concerns or questions about your hearing, during your visit, ask Des for advice.
Book an appointment today and hear clearly again! Book online or call us on 020 8303 7064 for same-day appointments.
We’re located at the Falconwood Pharmacy in Welling, DA16 2PL, and on the Maidstone Road in Chatham Kent, ME4 6JL.
The Welling and Medway Ear Wax Clinics are your trusted local experts in ear wax removal …and soon, all your hearing needs.