Board-Certified ENTs Explained: Why It Matters More Than Online Ratings
Today’s modern patients are smarter than ever. They do their due diligence of researching ENT care providers and weighing their options before choosing a provider that may align with their concerns and healthcare needs.
Board certification is a very important factor that many patients consider when choosing a physician. Many consumer surveys suggest that board certification continues to be an important factor for patients looking for a healthcare provider.
Although it doesn’t guarantee results, patients may view board certification as a reflection of a physician’s training and commitment to ongoing professional development. We will talk about board-certified ENTs and why it matters more than online ratings for ENT clinics in Arizona.
This is provided by Arizona Breathe Free for general information purposes only.
What Is an ENT?
An ENT, formally known as an otolaryngologist, is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. Depending on their specialties, they are also trained to address issues concerning the head, neck, face, and mouth.
They offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options for a variety of conditions, including allergies, sinusitis, ear infections, hearing issues, and sleep-related breathing disorders.
Otolaryngologists are specialists. To be one, one must complete their undergraduate and medical school education. Following graduation, those who wish to become an otolaryngologist must undergo five years of residency training in their chosen field.
In some cases, otolaryngologists may pursue further education and specialize in subspecialties such as pediatric otolaryngology, head and neck surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery.
What Do ENTs Treat?
ENT care providers are trained to address a wide variety of issues. While a primary care provider may be able to address mild ENT concerns, you may be referred to a specialist if there are certain symptoms:
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Persistent sore throat
- Severe sinus pain and pressure
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough
- Wheezing or hoarseness
- Recurring ear infections
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Lumps in the neck or face
- Breathing disorders due to anatomical issues
Disclaimer: This is general information only and is not intended to diagnose medical conditions. Seek professional medical help for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
What Is a Board-Certified ENT in Arizona?
A board-certified ENT in Arizona is an ENT physician who has completed medical school and a residency in otolaryngology. These specialists have undergone rigorous training and have met industry-recognized professional standards set by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS).
ABOHNS is a widely recognized certifying body for otolaryngologists in the United States and provides board certification for physicians who meet its training and examination requirements.
To qualify, doctors must complete a four-year undergraduate degree program, four years of medical school, and five or more years of specialty or residency training.
After completing an accredited residency training in otolaryngology, the physician must apply for and pass the primary certification examination process (which includes both the written and oral exams) and complete continuing certification activities every year to maintain that certification.
A physician who is already board-certified in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery may choose to specialize further. ABOHNS offers subcertification for three subspecialties: Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology, Neurotology, and Sleep Medicine.
Does Certification Matter?
A physician can legally practice medicine (including ear, nose, and throat care) if they are licensed by the state in which they practice. A board certification is not a requirement. However, it can indicate that a physician has undergone specialty training and has met industry-recognized standards to practice ENT as a medical specialty.
Board certification is a voluntary program in which specialists can seek to improve their knowledge and performance, demonstrating a commitment to their profession and to their patients.
Patients can check their physicians’ certification status at CertificationMatters.org. It’s affiliated with the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and is a free service for all patients and their families.
Why Board Certification Matters More Than Online Ratings
While online reviews offer insight into patient experiences, board certification can reflect a physician’s commitment to ongoing education, training, and adherence to professional standards in their field of specialty. It may serve as a helpful factor in evaluating a healthcare provider.
✅Many patients view board certification as an important factor when evaluating the qualifications of a healthcare provider.
✅Board certification may be an indicator that a physician has met industry-recognized training standards in their specialty.
✅Board certification is an extra step licensed physicians may take to demonstrate their commitment to their profession and the quality of care they provide to their patients.
✅Board certification allows physicians to know the latest advancements and technologies in their field of specialty.
FAQs
What is the difference between an ENT and an otolaryngologist?
An ENT and an otolaryngologist refer to the same type of medical professional. “ENT” is the more common term used because it’s easier to remember than the latter. However, most otolaryngologists prefer the official medical term “otolaryngologist” because it recognizes that they are trained to treat more than the conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat.
“Otolaryngologist” is also more consistent with the name of the board, certification, and language used by a majority of hospitals and clinics.
What is the difference between a licensed doctor and a board-certified doctor?
In the United States, all doctors must have a medical license in each state where they work and practice medicine. Licensed physicians may choose to continue their education and training to become board-certified in their area of practice. Unlike a medical license, board certification is a voluntary program.
Board-Certified ENT Near Me in AZ
If you’re comparing ENT care providers and clinics in Arizona, you can learn more about our ENT services by exploring our website or by contacting us directly. Arizona Breathe Free is one of many ENT care providers serving the residents of Scottsdale, Casa Grande, Westside, and the greater Phoenix area. Board certification is one of several ways patients may evaluate a provider’s qualifications. You can view physician credentials and qualifications on our provider page.