LM323 - Integrated Tinnitus Care: Best Practices for ENT, Private Practice and Telehealth Models

Abstract: This advanced-level session brings together a board-certified otolaryngologist and two audiologists to explore best practices in tinnitus and sound tolerance management across ENT, private practice, and telehealth models. Presenters will share current evidence, clinical innovations, and system-level frameworks for coordinated care. The session will highlight how diagnostic and treatment strategies differ by clinical environment yet align through best practice protocols. Advanced case discussions will illustrate medical evaluation, audiology treatment, and virtual care coordination that collectively enhance patient outcomes and strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration for tinnitus and hyperacusis patients.

Summary: This advanced session brings together a unique, interdisciplinary panel, a board-certified ENT Physician and two experienced Audiologists to examine the evolving landscape of tinnitus and sound tolerance care across ENT, private practice, and telehealth models. Few clinical discussions unite these distinct yet complementary perspectives, offering attendees an opportunity to learn how best practices differ and align across settings.

Section 1 - ENT Perspective, led by MD ENT Physician who has worked at large University & Hospital Medical Centers

The session begins with insights from the medical side of care. The otolaryngologist will discuss evidence-based best practices for tinnitus and hyperacusis evaluation within ENT clinics, including advanced differential diagnosis, pharmacologic considerations, and management of complex cases. Emphasis will be placed on identifying when and how Audiologists can collaborate with ENT Physician colleagues for optimal outcomes. Attendees will gain an understanding of the ENT’s diagnostic process and the best ways to communicate across disciplines.

Section 2 – Private Practice Audiology, led by tinnitus specialist with a full-time caseload of 80% clinical private practice tinnitus work:

Next, the private practice audiology perspective will highlight practical and evidence-based approaches for managing tinnitus and sound sensitivity in independent clinical settings. This section will focus on integrating Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-informed counseling, sound therapy devices, and Bimodal Stimulation within a clinical workflow. Participants will explore case examples demonstrating how private practice audiologists can be the champion for patients who need treatment.

Section 3 – Telehealth Audiology, led by tinnitus specialist with a full-time caseload of 90% telehealth work:

The final segment will focus on the emerging telehealth model for tinnitus management. This portion will highlight innovative remote-care protocols and hybrid treatment pathways. Topics will include technology needed, limitations, remote programming of hearing aids for tinnitus treatment, and advanced counseling techniques that can be provided via telehealth. Attendees will learn how they can implement more telehealth into their tinnitus practice.

In Summary:

Throughout the session, the speakers will discuss how ENT, private practice, and telehealth providers can get the best treatment outcomes for their patients, regardless of clinical setting. Case-based discussion will illustrate best practices for multidisciplinary collaboration.

The instructional level is Advanced, designed for audiologists with experience in tinnitus and sound tolerance assessment and management. Participants should already be familiar with core concepts in counseling and sound therapy and will gain new, research-supported insights from a ENT Physician and two Audiologists that each specialize primarily in tinnitus care. Attendees will be introduced to evidence-based care models that may elevate both patient outcomes and professional collaboration.

Brief Summary of Clinical Takeaways: The clinical takeaway for this session is to learn best practices for tinnitus and sound tolerance care across ENT, private practice, and telehealth settings. Attendees will gain evidence-based, real-world insights from a collaborative session featuring an ENT physician and two audiologists specializing in tinnitus care.

Assumptions: Attendees should have prior experience with tinnitus and sound tolerance assessment, basic treatment approaches, and counseling methods. Some familiarity with ENT referral workflows is recommended for full participation in this advanced session.