Incorporating Allergy Into the Busy Otolaryngology Practice

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Have the following thoughts ever crossed your mind? "I think allergy testing and immunotherapy would be a great thing to offer in my practice, but I'm not sure how to get started"… or… "I would like to maximize the efficiency of my allergy practice".

Allergy impacts most ENT practices as a significant portion of the U.S. population suffers from allergic rhinitis. There is a relationship between allergic disease and many head and neck diseases. This can present in a variety of ways. Overlapping symptoms and co-morbid conditions may make the diagnosis difficult.

In this session, two physicians with busy otolaryngic allergy practices will address a number of real-world questions related to the everyday obstacles of running an otolaryngic allergy practice. The presenters will offer clinical tips on identifying allergy-related signs and symptoms in routine otolaryngology patients. The epidemiology of allergy and its associations with other common comorbidities in the ENT practice will also be discussed.

The presenters will discuss how to get started with offering allergy services - from office set up to choosing appropriate staff to supplies, etc. In addition, for those who wish to expand their current allergy practice, some additional ancillary services will be presented such as spirometry for asthma diagnosis/treatment, as well as biologic agents.

This discussion will include the practical side of running an otolaryngic allergy practice. The presenters encourage audience participation. Bring your questions and challenges!

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Improve clinical acumen to identify allergy signs/symptoms in the patient presenting to an otolaryngology practice

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Be knowledgeable regarding various options of how to set up an allergy department within a busy otolaryngology practice

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Understand some of the practicalities of adding allergy to an otolaryngology practice

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Many practices are looking to add new ancillary services due to the financial impact from COVID. Members may be interested in adding allergy services to their practice and not know how/where to begin. This session will highlight how to get started offering allergy services within your practice.