Board-Certified ENTs in Scottsdale, AZ: Why It Matters More Than Online Ratings

Board-Certified ENTs in Scottsdale, AZ: Why It Matters More Than Online Ratings

This guide is presented by Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy to help patients in Scottsdale, AZ, understand the basics of ENT board certification. It reflects general information and should not be interpreted as a comparative evaluation of healthcare providers.

Today’s patients are taking a more proactive role in their health. Even at the earliest signs that something might be wrong, they do not hesitate to seek professional medical help. Not only that, but they also make it their mission to carefully research and weigh their healthcare provider options to ensure that they choose one that best aligns with their healthcare needs.

While online ratings and patient reviews might offer some insight and influence patient decisions to some level, they shouldn’t be the only key consideration. Board certification is another one of several key factors that you should look into when choosing an ENT care provider.

What Is an ENT?

An ENT, also known as an otolaryngologist, is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases affecting the ears, nose, and throat. ENTs can address a wide variety of conditions like allergies, chronic sinusitis, hearing disorders, and sleep-related breathing disorders.

Depending on their training and clinical focus, as well as the severity of your symptoms, ENT doctors may offer a range of non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

Aspiring otolaryngologists must complete a four-year undergraduate degree, a medical degree, and a five-year accredited residency training in otolaryngology.

Some otolaryngologists may choose to pursue further specialty training to include subspecialties like pediatric ENT, head and neck surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery.

What Is a Board-Certified ENT in Scottsdale, AZ?

In the United States, a physician must obtain a medical license in the state in which they practice. It is a legal requirement to practice medicine. Board certification for otolaryngology is a voluntary program and an additional accreditation ENTs may pursue to demonstrate additional expertise in their field.

Being a board-certified ENT means that a licensed physician has completed accredited training in otolaryngology, has met industry-recognized professional standards, and has successfully passed board examination requirements, as set by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, or ABOHNS.

ABOHNS is a nationally recognized certifying body for practicing otolaryngologists in the United States. To qualify, physicians must complete:

  • A four-year undergraduate degree program,
  • A four-year medical degree, and
  • A five-year residency training program in otolaryngology.

Then, the physician must apply for and pass the primary certification examination (which includes both written and oral exams) given by the ABOHNS. Lastly, physicians who successfully obtain their board certification must complete continuing certification requirements and activities every year to maintain their certification status.

ABOHNS offers subcertifications in three subspecialties, namely: Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology, Sleep Medicine, and Neurotology.

Why Board Certification Matters When Choosing an ENT Specialist Near You

Unlike a medical license, which is a requirement for physicians (including specialists like otolaryngologists), board certification is a voluntary program and additional credential that licensed physicians may choose to pursue to demonstrate additional expertise and commitment to ongoing education in their specialty.

While primary care providers (PCP) are equipped to address mild ENT-related issues, more complex or chronic conditions may warrant a referral to an ENT specialist.

Patients can check a physician’s board certification status on CertificationMatters.org, a free service affiliated with the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

Online Ratings and Board Certification: Factors That Matter

While we recognize it’s normal for patients to look up and consider online ratings and patient reviews when choosing a potential ENT care provider, it’s also important to recognize that patient reviews reflect individual experiences and are not a substitute for clinical evaluation. Individual outcomes vary and should not be considered typical. Patients are encouraged to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for their specific condition.

Patient reviews and online ratings should be considered alongside other key considerations, such as board certification and credentials.

Why does board certification matter?

  • Board certification indicates that a physician has completed specialty training in otolaryngology and has passed board certification exams and requirements, as set by the ABOHNS.
  • It demonstrates a physician’s dedication to ongoing education, training, and meeting professional standards in their field of specialty.
  • It gives ENT physicians an avenue to commit to ongoing learning, which may include the latest updates to industry best practices and technological advancements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scottsdale ENTs

Licensed physician vs board-certified physician: What is the difference?

A medical license is a legal requirement to practice medicine in the United States. This requirement includes specialists like otolaryngologists. Board certification is not a legal requirement, but rather an optional program and additional credential physicians may pursue to demonstrate specialty practice.

Are all otolaryngologists board-certified?

No, not all otolaryngologists are board-certified. However, they must obtain a medical license to practice.

A medical license can encompass the diagnosis and treatment of a full spectrum of ENT issues. Board certification may be pursued as an option to indicate that a physician has undergone additional evaluation and training in their field of specialty.

Choosing the Right Scottsdale ENT Specialist Near Me

Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy is an ENT care provider for residents in Scottsdale and the surrounding communities. For more information specific to our clinic, services, and specialties, visit our website.

If you’re looking for a sinus and allergy specialist in Scottsdale, our board-certified ENT care provider, Dr. Lee, offers care tailored to your needs. Find out more about his credentials and qualifications on our provider page.

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The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.‍

Results may vary: Treatment outcomes and health experiences may differ based on individual medical history, condition severity, and response to care.‍

Emergency Notice: If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.