OTO: The Evolving Role of Advanced Practice Providers in Otolaryngology: Improving Patient Access and Patient Satisfaction

This podcast highlights original research published in the January 2022 issue of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, the official journal of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) Foundation. The aging US population requires an increasing volume of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery services, yet the otolaryngologist physician workforce remains static. Advanced practice providers (APPs), including physician assistants and nurse practitioners, improve access across the continuum of primary and subspecialty health care. In conclusion, the demand for health care services in otolaryngology care will increasingly exceed otolaryngologist surgeon workforce capacity. APPs are valuable partners in meeting growing needs of the population. While further data are needed to determine the optimal models of high-quality care, it is clear that APPs will be play an ever-greater role in shaping the specialty. Successful growth in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery requires a culture that supports effective integration of APPs across diverse practice settings. Progress also requires open-mindedness on the part of both providers and patients in embracing evolving models of care.   Click here to read the full article.