Published: December 3, 2020

2019-2020 AAO-HNS/F Committee Highlights

Committees are the lifeblood of the AAO-HNS/F and a great way for members to contribute meaningfully to the organization and the specialty. Prior to the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience, committees met virtually and discussed achievements during the past year and planned for 2021.


Committees are the lifeblood of the AAO-HNS/F and a great way for members to contribute meaningfully to the organization and the specialty. Prior to the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience, committees met virtually and discussed achievements during the past year and planned for 2021. Below are just a few of the highlights from some of the committees during the 2019-2020 term. To view a list of current committee members, please visit www.entnet.org/committees.

To join a committee, visit www.entnet.org/committees and complete the application before December 31, 2020.

STANDING COMMITTEES

Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws Committee
William R. Blythe, MD, Chair

Audit Committee
Selena E. Briggs, MD, Chair

  • Met via conference call in August to discuss audit planning with the independent accounting firm and again in late October to review the FY20 audit with staff and the independent auditors.
  • Completed audit of the consolidated FY20 financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2020 (FY20), and received a “clean opinion.”
  • FY20 financial statements and annual tax returns are now available. Contact Lisa Holman, Senior Manager, Financial Operations (lholman@entnet.org) for access.

Education Steering Committee
Jeffrey P. Simons, MD, Coordinator for Education

  • Unveiled OTO Logic, a successor to AcademyU® to reflect the Foundation’s growing network of digital products. There has been a 614% surge in online course enrollments over the past year.
  • Launched FLEX, our new flagship education product developed to replace the Home Study Course that was retired in August after more than three decades. More than 130 Foundation education faculty participated in curriculum development training.
  • Developed seven new eCourses and four new Patient Management Perspective courses.
  • Collaborated with Esther X. Vivas, MD, Chair of the Pan-American Committee to translate three more courses into Spanish, bringing the total to six available.
  • Supported resident education during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing nearly 800 residents free access to the AcademyU Home Study Course+ catalog with 200 free courses.
  • Involved Education Committee leaders and members in the production of the timely COVID-19 podcast series. Topics included the rapid adaptation of telemedicine and related issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, otolaryngology residents volunteering at Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, NY, and the effects of the pandemic on resident education and how approaches may change moving forward.
  • Continued American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS) initiatives to support CERTLinkTM and rebuild the Self-Assessment Models to offer continuing medical education (CME) that counts for Maintenance of Certification as a newly launched AAO-HNSF series titled, “Otolaryngology Patient Scenarios.”
  • Created a new column, “From the Education Committees” in the Bulletin to expand clinical education. Topics thus far include upper airway stimulation, skin prick testing for environmental allergens, cancer immunotherapy, and telemedicine.
  • Reinvented AcademyQTM to become OTO QuestSM Knowledge Assessment with nearly 1,200 case-based questions with rationales, is now fully integrated into OTO Logic, our learning management system.
  • Emphasized the importance of simulation in otolaryngology education. For example we hosted the Virtual SIM Tank on Monday, September 14, as part of the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience. The top three abstract submissions presented their simulation projects to a panel of expert judges.
  • Increased the utilization of OTO Source©, the comprehensive online otolaryngology curriculum. After being launched last year, OTO Source is actively being used by residents, program directors, faculty, and practicing otolaryngologists as a standard study guide.

Ethics Committee
Roger D. Cole, MD, Chair

  • Published the article, “What Matters in the End: Care at the End of Life in Otolaryngology” in the February 2020 issue of the Bulletin.
  • Presented the following at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Counseling, Shared Decision Making, and Palliative Surgery” supported by Head and Neck Surgery Education Committee
    • “What Matters in the End: Care at the End of Life in Otolaryngology” supported by Ethics Committee and the Section for Residents and Fellows Committee
  • Reviewed Position Statement on Communicable Diseases (Updated: June 2020) and participated in other Academy assignments as requested of the Chair.

Finance & Investment Subcommittee (FISC)
Kenneth W. Altman, MD, Secretary-Treasurer

  • Worked with staff to develop a balanced FY21 budget (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021), which was approved by the Boards of Directors in May 2020.
  • Met on a quarterly basis to review financial statements, forecasts, and budget to actual variances and reviewed the annual audit and report of the Audit Committee.
  • Met with AAO-HNS/F professional investment advisors in August to review the performance results for the fiscal year on the managed investment portfolios. Returns were positive at approximately 2% and 3% on the long-term and operating reserve portfolios respectively.
  • Reviewed the audited financial results for FY20 in November, which was a positive variance from the break-even operating budget. A total of $2.4M was added to net assets (a portion of which is donor restricted) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020.

International Steering Committee
J. Pablo Stolovitzky, MD, AAO-HNSF Coordinator for International Affairs

  • Launched the widely attended Virtual Regional Roundtable discussion groups for Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. Co-chaired by AAO-HNSF regional advisors and global thought leaders, meeting participants shared insights, learnings, and best practices during the COVID-19 era and future impacts on training. Recaps of meeting discussions were pre-recorded and presented at the International Advisory Board General Assembly.
  • Recruited volunteers and developed a database comprised of 91 volunteer faculty members for global Joint Meetings.
  • Developed an International Observership database of U.S.-based otolaryngology-head and neck surgery observership programs and opportunities. The list is posted on the global web page and serves as a resource for international young physicians and the International Visiting Scholarship program applicants.
  • Expanded International Corresponding Society-affiliated network to 75 entities.

Nominating Committee
Albert L. Merati, MD, Chair

Physician Payment Policy (3P) Work Group
Peter Manes, MD, Chair

Science and Education Committee
Mark K. Wax, MD, Chair

ANNUAL MEETING

Annual Meeting Program Committee
Mark K. Wax, MD, Chair

  • Held the AAO-HNSF’s first fully virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.
  • Kicked off the 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting on Sunday, September 13, with a Virtual Opening Ceremony that featured reports from Duane J. Taylor, MD, AAO-HNS/F President and James C. Denneny III, MD, AAO-HNS/F EVP/CEO followed by a keynote address delivered by Joel Selanikio, MD. Other highlights include:
    • Delivered an extended program over a six-week time frame providing access to over 300 hours of CME credit.
    • Tailored each week to an otolaryngology specialty with in-depth coverage of subspecialty topics.
    • Included a blend of live and on-demand education content as well as set of tools for interacting with speakers for discussion.
    • Introduced ‘Office Hours’ as a new format designed for one-on-one exchanges with thought leaders in otolaryngology.
    • Presented hundreds of Scientific Oral and Poster author-developed video demonstrations.
  • Began the planning and coordination of the AAO-HNSF 2021 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience, which will take place in Los Angeles, California, October 3-6.

ACADEMY COMMITTEES

Airway and Swallowing Committee
Maggie A. Kuhn, MD, Chair

  • Sponsored the Panel Presentation, “Zenker’s Diverticulum: Do You Have All the Tools?” at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.
  • Submitted a Position Statement on “Tracheotomy Recommendations During the COVID-19 Pandemic.”
  • Participated in drafting “Guidance for Return to Practice for Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
  • Reviewed and submitted updates for the following Position Statements:
    • Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Position Statement
    • Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery Position Statement
  • Created content to recognize National Dysphagia Awareness Month that was published in the June issue of the Bulletin.

Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee
Rajesh S. Kakani, MD, Chair

  • Sponsored the Panel Presentation, “Allergy: It’s Not Just the Nose” at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.

Complementary/Integrative Medicine Committee
Todd E. Falcone, MD, Chair

  • Sponsored two Panel Presentations at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “How to Create a Wellness Curriculum at Your Institution – Lessons Learned from the GME Experience”
    • “Caring for the Caregiver – Physician Safety and Body Mechanics”

Credentials and Membership Committee
Daniel R. Gold, MD, Chair

Diversity and Inclusion Committee
Cristina Cabrera-Muffly, MD, Chair
Erynne A. Faucett, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Developed scripts for 10 training videos to be produced by the Academy. The videos will provide training for physicians and administrative staff on best practices and appropriate communication with patients in situations including LGBTQ+ patients and partners, cultural barriers (language, culture, dress, interpreters), elder care, implicit bias, obesity stereotypes, and gender bias.
  • Sponsored three presentations at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Unequal Treatment: How Healthcare Disparities Negatively Impact Our Otolaryngology Patients”
    • “Facing Unconscious Bias in Medicine”
    • “Cultural Competency Training to Achieve Health Equity in Otolaryngology”
  • Released the Panel Presentation titled “Using Allyship to Unlock the Power of Diversity” as a podcast on FreqENTcy.
  • Authored four Bulletin articles:
    • “When We Default to Straight”
    • “Why Pronouns Matter”
    • “Hindsight is 2020: Lessons on Racial Health Disparity during the COVID-19 Pandemic”
    • “Heterogenous Dynamics”

Endocrine Surgery Committee
David L. Steward, MD, Chair

Equilibrium Committee
Dr. Michael E. Hoffer, MD, Chair
Dr. Bruce L. Fetterman, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Promoted education resources on vestibular and equilibratory disorders through the Academy’s Annual Meeting presentation opportunities and the Bulletin.
  • Updated the Vestibular Rehabilitation Position Statement.
  • Contributed a successful Panel Presentation on Vestibular Migraine during the AAO-HNSF 2020 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.

Geriatric Otolaryngology Committee
Selena E. Briggs, MD, MBA, PhD, Chair

  • Offered three “Office Hours” presentations during the AAO-HNSF 2020 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “The Older Ear – Implications for Management” (presenters included Kourosh Parham, MD, PhD, Steven M. Parnes, MD, Brian J. McKinnon, MD, MBA, MPH, and Cameron C. Wick, MD)
    • “Hard to Swallow – Geriatric Dysphagia” (presenters included David E. Eibling, MD and Ozlem E. Tulunay-Ugur, MD)
    • “Maximizing Telehealth – Which Geriatric Patient Do We Need to See in Person?” (presenters included Natasha Pollak, MD and Selena E. Briggs, MD, MBA, PhD)
  • Discussed the need for good supporting data on falls prevention when submitting Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) and Expert Consensus Statement (ECS) topics for consideration by the Guideline Task Force. Dr. Parnes suggested sharing the ECS submission with the Committee members as well as the American Society of Geriatric Otolaryngology.

Head and Neck Surgery & Oncology Committee
Cherie-Ann O. Nathan, MD, Chair

Hearing Committee
Oliver F. Adunka, MD, Chair

  • Sponsored six Panel Presentations at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Medical Work-Up of Pediatric Sensorineural Hearing Loss – Case Presentation”
    • “Curing Genetic Hearing Loss: A Goal within Reach”
    • “Expanding Criteria for Cochlear Implantation Part 2: Adult Candidates”
    • “Hearing & Cognition: What’s the Connection? What Can We Do About It?”
    • “When Is a Hearing Aid Not Enough? Identifying Cochlear Implant Candidates for the Comprehensive Otolaryngologist”
    • “Single Sided Deafness: Data-Driven Treatment Options for Children and Adults”
  • Provided expert reviews of five Blue Cross Blue Shield Association “Evidence Street” reviews.
  • Reviewed a survey tool on potential association between COVID-19 and sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
  • Reviewed a draft policy on United Healthcare (UHC) Cochlear Implant.
  • Reviewed a neural monitoring report from the Cranial Nerve Monitoring Task Force.
  • Co-sponsored a CPG topic proposal with the Implantable Hearing Devices Committee (IHD) on Unilateral Cochlear Implants.
  • Coordinated with the IHD Committee to provide recommendations on surgical prioritization as part of the COVID-19-related reactivation of surgical care.
  • Collaborated with the IHD Committee and EVP on coding for new generation of active bone conduction auditory implants.

Imaging Committee
Russell B. Smith, MD, Chair

  • Met virtually in August to discuss committee goals.
  • Developed a survey of AAO-HNS members’ individual perspective on usage of point of care ultrasound, current status of education, and role of training programs in incorporating ultrasound education into residency and fellowships.
  • Proposed a program to develop education materials for individual otolaryngologists, training programs, and international colleagues to move forward dedicated ultrasound education throughout the specialty to the leadership of both AAO-HNS and ABOHNS.
  • Completed review of AAO-HNS Position Statement on Scope of Radiologic Training and Interpretation of Paranasal Imaging by Otolaryngologists.
  • Readdressed a Position Statement regarding the use of Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography in the staging and restaging of head and neck cancer.

Implantable Hearing Devices Committee
Fred F. Telischi, MDD, MD, Chair

  • Sponsored a Panel Presentation, “Expanding Criteria for Cochlear Implantation Part 2: Adult Candidates” at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.
  • Revised draft of Expanded Pediatric Candidacy Position Statement.
  • Co-sponsored a submitted CPG topic proposal on Unilateral Cochlear Implants for Bilateral Severe, Profound, or Moderate Sloping to Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss at the 2020 Guideline Taskforce Meeting.
  • Reviewed and commented on draft UHC Cochlear Implant Policy.
  • Coordinated with the Hearing Committee to provide otology and neurotology-specific recommendations on surgical prioritization as part of the COVID-19-related reactivation of surgical care, “Guide to Enhance Otologic and Neurotologic Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic.”
  • Collaborated with the Hearing Committee and EVP on coding for new generation of active bone conduction auditory implants.

Infectious Disease Committee
Ken Kazahaya, MD, MBA, Chair

  • Presented two Panel Presentations at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Controversies of Pediatric Hearing Loss,” to include Congenital CMV with the Pediatric Otolaryngology Committee (presenter included Albert H. Park, MD and Robert H. Chun, MD)
    • “Known and Unknown Emerging Infections” (presenters included Marlene L. Durand, MD, Park, and Michael Chee, MD)
  • Distributed COVID-19 survey questionnaire and results.
  • Released Communicable Diseases Position Statement Update.
  • Developed goals for 2021 to include:
    • Developing a presentation for the AAO-HNSF 2021 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience on COVID-19 survey results
    • Writing a Bulletin article on Reliability of Different Testing Methods for COVID-19
    • Releasing a survey on care disparities and impacts of decreased patient visits for preventative care
    • Analyzing sensorineural hearing loss and COVID-19

Media and Public Relations Committee
Philip G. Chen, MD, Chair

  • Continued the approval process for the “Guidance for Use of Online Social Networks” document. Once fully reviewed and approved, this document will serve as a reference guide to assist otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons in using social media sites safely and responsibly.
  • Collaborated with AAO-HNS Pediatrics Otolaryngology Committee in developing public outreach materials for Kids ENT Health Month.
  • Moderated the “Leverage Social Media to Elevate Your Practice” webinar that took place March 11 (Chandra M. Ivey, MD).
  • Wrote the article, “Building an Online Presence: A Primer for Otolaryngologists” for the October 2020 Bulletin (Kara D. Meister, MD, Inna A. Husain, MD, and Philip G. Chen, MD) https://bulletin.entnet.org/article/out-of-committee-media-and-public-relations-building-an-online-presence-a-primer-for-otolaryngologists/.
  • Provide input on the ENThealth.org Executive Committee (Chair of the Media and PR Committee, Philip G. Chen, MD).

Medical Devices and Drugs Committee
Davud Baradaran Sirjani, MD, Chair

Medical Informatics Committee
Jayde M. Steckowych, MD, Chair

Microvascular Committee
Samir Khariwala, MD, Chair

Patient Safety & Quality Improvement Committee
Emily F. Boss, MD, MPH and C.W. David Chang, MD, Co-chairs

  • Received an AAO-HNS/F 2020 Committee Excellence Award.
  • Sponsored/co-sponsored 11 Panel Presentations for the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.
  • Provided contributions to assist members during the COVID-19 pandemic, including developing an Anosmia Reporting Tool, several podcast episodes, and guidance documents.
  • Participated in the development of Clinical Practice Guideline,Opioid Prescribing for Analgesia after Common Otolaryngology Operations.”
  • Conducted a review of the literature and developed guidance on pediatric tracheostomy care that was accepted for publication in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery with the Pediatric Otolaryngology Education Committee.
  • Published manuscript for OTO Open on intraoperative sentinel events.
  • Published COVID-19-related manuscripts on the following topics: anosmia; safety recommendations after tracheostomy; safe airway management; difficult airway and aerosol-generating procedures; and healthcare disparities in head and neck cancer.
  • Published additional manuscripts on prevention of harm through RCA and oral intubation attempts in patients with laryngectomy.
  • Developed three Bulletin articles addressing safety of office-based laryngology procedures; telemedicine; and scary cases and error pyramids.
  • Created survey on conducting Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation and Focused Professional Practice Evaluation within institutions.
  • Created an ENTConnect special interest group specific to patient safety.

Pediatric Otolaryngology Committee
Margo K. McKenna, MD, Chair
Upcoming (2020-2021)

  • Selected “Incidence and Management of Noise Induced Hearing Loss in Children” as the topic for 2021 Kids ENThealth Month and writing an article to be published in the Bulletin in February 2021.
  • Submitted ECS topics on laryngomalacia, persistent OSA after T&A, laryngomalacia, hoarseness, sialorrhea.
  • Presented the following Panel Presentations at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Management of Aerodigestive Foreign Bodies for the General Otolaryngologist”
    • “Evidence for Delayed Vaccination or Non-Immunization to Pediatric Patients”
    • “Lip Tie”
    • “Mycobacterium”
    • “T&A Ethical Decisions”
  • Responded to Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology Certification Process

Accomplishments (2019-2020)

  • Published two Bulletin articles:
    • Epistaxis (February 2020)
    • EoE (July 2020)
  • Contributed to the Academy’s COVID-19 reopening prioritization work.
  • Panel Presentations Accepted for AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • “Best Evidence for the Management of Chronic Tube Otorrhea”
    • “Building Sustainability in Pediatric Airway Surgery Abroad”
    • “Pediatric Thyroid Nodules”
  • Submitted a ECS topic on Pediatric Thyroid Disease.
  • Updated T&A Position Statement.
  • Developed a Position Statement on Laryngeal Papillomatosis and Gardasil.
  • Reviewed two Position Statements:
    • Management of Pediatric Hearing Loss during COVID
    • CI Candidacy in Young Children under 12 months
  • Developed a survey Vetting for In-office Tympanostomy Tube Placement.
  • Developed a survey Vetting for practices regarding removal of short-term myringotomy tubes in pediatric patients.
  • Endorsed legislation on the Safe Magnet Act for Children.
  • Appointed member for ECS on Pediatric drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Committee
Robin W. Lindsay, MD, MA, Chair
In the upcoming year, the committee will

  • Work to educate insurance companies requiring nasal steroid use before authorizing a nasal valve correction procedure that nasal steroids should not be a prerequisite by demonstrating that otolaryngologists/facial plastic surgeons can visually diagnose structural causes of nasal obstruction, including septal deviation and nasal valve correction, and can determine whether or not nasal steroids will improve a patient’s symptoms of nasal obstruction or not.
  • Explore the possibility, with the 3P group, of creating a new code for revision functional rhinoplasty, as these often complex and lengthy procedures requiring advanced surgical skills that end up being down coded because revision rhinoplasty codes are not covered by many insurance carriers as they are often consider cosmetic along with the cosmetic rhinoplasty codes.

Rhinology & Paranasal Sinus Committee
Sanford M. Archer, MD, Chair

Salivary Gland Committee Highlights
Gordy Siegel, MD, Chair

  • Created the Salivary Gland Committee – a group of international leaders, researchers, and teachers in all areas of salivary gland disease with an emphasis on sialendoscopy.
  • Worked with the Physician Payment Policy workgroup to compile a list of the most commonly used Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes used for salivary gland procedures.
  • Continued engagement in ongoing research projects, including COVID-19 testing through saliva.

Skull Base Surgery Committee
John C. Goddard, MD

Sleep Disorders Committee Highlights
Cristina Baldassari, MD Chair

  • Completed review of Draft Medicare Local Coverage Policy on Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
  • Completed review of Aetna and Cigna Obstructive Sleep Apnea Medical Coverage Policies.
  • Drafted an AAO-HNS-sponsored ECS on Pediatric DISE. 
  • Established Sleep Surgery Special Interest Group on ENTConnect to serve as a forum for discussion for sleep surgery related topics.
  • Worked with the Physician Payment Policy workgroup to submit applications for new CPT codes for Sleep Endoscopy and Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator implantation.
  • Developed committee goals for 2021 to include:
    • Identify opportunities to engage with and expose medical students and residents to sleep surgery.
    • Review unfavorable private payer policies related to sleep surgery and engage in health policy advocacy to improve access to care for our patients.

Telehealth Committee
Douglas M. Hildrew, MD, Chair

Trauma Committee
LaKeisha R. Henry, MD, Chair

  • Produced first Trauma Committee podcast, “Cranialfacial Trauma Management” https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/show/entnet/id/15416048, which as of 11/18/2020, had 608 downloads. The Academy’s channel frequENTcy can be found on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Android, iPhone, and Microsoft Windows.
  • Partnered with the Society of Military Otolaryngologists to present the annual Trauma Symposium virtually on September 18, which featured “Faceoff: Facial Transplantation and Paralysis” by Donald J. Annino, Jr., MD, DMD, assistant professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Harvard Medical School.
  • Partnered with SMO to receive AAO-HNSF approval of CME for the Trauma Symposium.

Veterans Affairs Committee Highlights
Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Chair

  • Participated on the review committee for the CPG, “Opioid Prescribing for Analgesia After Common Otolaryngology Operations,” to be published March 2021.
  • Discussed the development of education materials for telemedicine, SPARQ data, and MISSION Act, as well as other action items that will be considered further during the 2021 term.
  • Delivered a Scientific Oral Presentation at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting, “Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation in Veterans with Comorbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea” by committee member Reena Dhanda Patil, MD.

Voice Committee
Julina Ongkasuwan, MD, Chair

  • Worked with the Airway and Swallowing Committee and ABEA and ALA to identify surgical priorities for the AAO-HSN Guidance for Return to Practice for Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery materials that were distributed in May 2020.
  • Developed the following Position Statements in 2020:
  • Contributed the following to the Bulletin in 2020:
  • Presented the education session, “Leuko Lot: A Lot of Laryngeal Leukoplakia” at the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.
  • Submitted the topic, “Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis in Adults” for the AAO-HNSF Guideline Development Task Force to consider.
  • Selected the g theme “One World, Many Voices” for World Voice Day 2021 with materials to be developed and distributed for the April 16, 2021 observance.
  • Identified the following areas in which committee members will develop content for ENThealth.org:
    • Cough / Neurogenic Cough
    • Benign Phonotraumatic Lesions
    • Role of Your Voice Care Team
    • Reflux Management and Lifestyle Changes
    • Tips for Professional Voice Users
  • Discussed submitting the following education topics for the 2021 Call for Science for the AAO-HNSF 2021 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience:
    • Scary Laryngology Cases
    • Vocal Cord Injection
    • Tips to Treat Professional Voice Users for General ENTs

EDUCATION COMMITTEES

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Education Committee
Scott B. Roofe, MD, Chair
Daniel Knott, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Published the final Home Study Course section on Plastic and Reconstructive Problems in April 2020.
  • Authored the following new courses in OTO Logic titled, “Complications of Facelift and Eyelid Surgery;” and “Evaluation and Management of Orbital Floor Fractures.”
  • Launched the Otolaryngology Patient Scenario titled, “Patient Seeking Cosmetic Face and Neck Surgery.”
  • Developing the curriculum for the eighth section of FLEX on Functional Nasal Surgery that will launch May 2021.

General Otolaryngology & Sleep Education Committee
Jeffrey J. Stanley, MD, Chair

  • Published the second to final, Home Study Course section on Trauma and Critical Care Medicine in February 2020.
  • Authored a new course in OTO Logic titled, “Cultural Competency in Your Otolaryngology Practice.”
  • Megan L. Durr, MD served as the Conference Co-Director for the 10th ENT PAC Conference, providing physician leadership to advanced practice providers (cancelled due to pandemic).
  • Developing the curriculum for the seven section of FLEX on Tracheostomy Management that will launch April 2021.

Head & Neck Surgery Education Committee
David M. Cognetti, MD, Chair
Vikas Mehta, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Received an AAO-HNS/F 2020 Committee Excellence Award.
  • Authored the following new courses in OTO Logic:
    • Cancer Immunotherapy: What the Otolaryngologist Needs to Know
    • The Opioid Epidemic
  • Released the following podcasts on HPV Status
    • Updates in Head and Neck Cancer
    • Review and Discussion of ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)
  • Published the third section of FLEX on “Oropharyngeal Cancer Update 2020: HPV, Robotic surgery, and De-escalation” in November 2020.

Laryngology & Bronchoesophagology Education Committee
Thomas L. Carroll, MD, Chair
Paul C. Bryson, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Received an AAO-HNS/F 2020 Committee Excellence Award.
  • Launched the Otolaryngology Patient Scenario titled, “Patient With 2 Months of Hoarseness.”
  • Published the second section of FLEX on Glottic and Subglottic in October 2020.

Otology & Neurotology Education Committee
Marc L. Bennett, MD, Chair
Daniel H. Coelho, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Authored the following new courses in OTO Logic:
    • New Technology for Hearing Loss
    • Temporal Bone Imaging: Challenging Cases and Strategies to Improve CT and MRI Interpretations
  • Released a podcast titled, “CSF Leaks.”
  • Launched the following Otolaryngology Patient Scenarios:
    • Patient with Progressive Right-Sided Hearing Loss
    • Patient with Recurrent Vertigo
    • Patient with Dizziness and Hyperacusis
    • Patient with Right-Sided Hearing Loss
    • Patient with Episodic Vertigo
    • Patient with Progressive Hearing Loss
    • Patient with Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
  • Developing the curriculum for the fourth section of FLEX on Chronic Otitis Media and Cholesteatoma that will launch January 2021.

Pediatric Otolaryngology Education Committee
Meredith Merz Lind, MD, Chair

  • Authored the following new courses in OTO Logic:
    • Evaluation and Management of an Infant with Noisy Breathing – a Patient Management Perspective Course
    • Pediatric Thyroid Nodules and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
  • Launched the following Otolaryngology Patient Scenarios
    • Child with Neck Mass
    • Child with Snoring
  • Developing the curriculum for the fifth section of FLEX on Pediatric OSA that will launch February 2021.

Practice Management Education Committee
Lance A. Manning, MD, Chair

  • Authored a new course in OTO Logic titled, “Telemedicine During the Pandemic: A Guide to Immediate Implementation of Telemedicine in Your Practice during the Pandemic.”
  • Released a podcast titled, “Unconscious Bias.”
  • Developing the curriculum for the six section of FLEX on “Hindsight is 2020: Moving Your Practice Forward in 2021 in March 2021.”

Rhinology & Allergy Education Committee
Stacey T. Gray, MD, Chair
Zara M. Patel, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Released a podcast titled, “The Use of Biologics in Otolaryngology: Focus on CRSwNP.”
  • Authored the following new courses in AcademyU:
    • Differential Diagnosis and Evaluation of a Unilateral Sinonasal Mass
    • Adult with Allergic Rhinitis
    • Technical Failures of FESS
  • Published the first section of FLEX on Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis in September 2020.

Simulation Education Committee
Kelly M. Malloy, MD, Chair

  • Hosted the fourth annual SIM Tank event held virtually this year, where finalists presented their simulation projects to a panel of expert judges and a live audience:
    • First Place: Katie Kreicher, MD, University of Connecticut, Development of a 3D-Printed Model for R hinoplasty Simulation
    • Second place: Ernest D. Gomez, MD, Harvard Medical School, A Novel Cough Simulation Device for Training of Risk-Mitigation Techniques During Aerosol Generating Procedures
    • Third place: Mark Lee, BS, BA, Weill Cornell Medicine, Developing a 3D-Printed Larynx for Injection Laryngoplasty Training
  • The 2020 Simulation Reception & Showcase was cancelled due to the pandemic. The following accepted proposals have been invited to demonstrate their work at next year’s 2021 Simulation Reception & Showcase.

FOUNDATION COMMITTEES

History and Archives Committee
Tulio A. Valdez, MD, Chair

Humanitarian Efforts Committee
Chair, Mark E. Zafereo Jr., MD

  • Received an AAO-HNS/F 2020 Committee of Excellence Award for efforts to further outreach in low resource settings worldwide.
  • Worked to expand communications platforms highlighting AAO-HNSF members who voluntarily engage in global humanitarian outreach efforts that provide humanitarian relief in crises, patient care in low resource areas, and healthcare provider education around the world.  In the form of interview questions, the Humanitarian Spotlights are featured quarterly in the Bulletin publication.
  • Developed Position Statement for Global Humanitarian Outreach describing the Academy’s  objective in supporting global humanitarian outreach efforts to be the ultimate development of sustainable, autonomous healthcare within the local healthcare environment. Statement was approved by the AAO-HNS Board of Directors.
  • Committee’s Scholarly Output workgroup sponsored three panel presentations for the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience.

Outcomes Research and Evidence Based Medicine Committee
Dr. Vikas Mehta, MD, Chair

  • Published Bulletin Series highlighting studies with significant findings for clinical or surgical practice:
    • Study Explores Ibuprofen Versus Opioid Therapy for Outpatient Post-Op Pain Control
    • Data-Driven Multidisciplinary Tracheostomy Care – Preventing Harm and Improving Lives
    • Tonsillectomy versus tonsillotomy for pediatric sleep disordered breathing
    • Is Dupilumab the answer to the prayers of the chronic rhinosinusitis patient?
  • Participation in AAO-HNSF Guidelines Task Force initiatives:
    • Clinical Practice Guideline: Opioid Prescribing for Analgesia After Common Otolaryngology Operations
    • Expert Consensus Statement: Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy
  • Reviewed 72 otolaryngology patient-reported outcome tools on the AAO-HNS/F website to evaluate the content and utility of these tools.
  • Collaborated with Telehealth Committee on potential publication entitled, “The Future of Telemedicine:  Revolutionizing Medicine or Flash in the Pan.
  • Future Projects for 2020-2021 work plan:
    • Cross-committee collaborations including evidence-based strategies to address healthcare disparities and social determinants of health, as well as patient safety and quality improvement joint initiatives.
    • State of the art reviews, Panel Presentations, and mini-seminars for the AAO-HNSF 2021 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience, including proposed sessions on systemic steroids, biologics, telemedicine, and opioid prescribing practices.

Pan-American Committee
Chair, Esther Ximena Vivas, MD

  • Reviewed the Spanish translations of patient handouts for CPGs on Nosebleed (Epistaxis) and Meniere’s Disease, as part of the AAO-HNSF’s CPG online repository of resources for practitioners and patients.
  • Currently under development is a Spanish/English glossary of common diagnostic and medical terms to serve as a resource for practitioners.
  • Recruited members to serve as Volunteer Faculty for 2021 joint meetings in Latin America and upcoming Pan-American ORL Association congresses and courses.

Reg-entSM Executive Committee
James C. Denneny III, MD, Chair

  • The Reg-ent Executive Committee was instrumental in the progression of Reg-ent from Phase 1 to Phase 2 allowing for additional capabilities to our successful MIPS reporting portfolio and expansion into the new CMS MVP program, measure development, clinical trials, outcomes research projects, private payer advocacy and public health initiatives.

AAO-HNS SECTIONS

Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training
Carla V. Valenzuela, MD

Women in Otolaryngology Section (WIO)
Angela M. Powell, MD

WIO Communications Committee
Reena Dhanda Patil, MD, Chair

  • Published three WIO articles for the Bulletin.
  • Developed calendar to schedule regular WIO Facebook posts.
  • Promoted WIO Day, resulting in increased events and posting of photographs from celebrations at institutions in the U.S. and internationally.
  • Promoted WIO 10th anniversary events and the history of WIO documentary on all Academy platforms, resulting in over 1,400 views.

WIO Leadership Development and Mentorship Committee
Cecelia E. Schmalbach, MD, Chair

  • Developed and produced a sold-out virtual WIO Speed Networking Event during the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting. Twenty prominent leaders from the field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery shared their experiences and advice on topics ranging from underrepresented minorities, wellness, work/family balance, leadership, sponsorship, and negotiations.  Attendees rotated through virtual breakout sessions of their selected networking topics.

WIO Program and Awards Committee
Evelyne Kalyoussef, MD, Chair

  • Received an AAO-HNS/F 2020 Committee Excellence Award, recognizing a committee that contributes in ways that lead to the overall success of the AAO-HNS/F vision as the global leader in optimizing quality ear, nose, and throat care. Committees receiving the award have a passion for the AAO-HNS/F’s vision and for accomplishing the activities outlined in the AAO-HNS/F strategic plan.
  • Awarded Kathleen M. Yaremchuk, MD, MSA, the Helen F. Krause, MD Trailblazer award, recognizing an individual who has furthered the interests of women in the field of otolaryngology.
  • Awarded Leila J. Mady, MD, PhD, MPH, the Exemplary Senior Trainee recognizing an outstanding female senior resident or fellow in an otolaryngology-head and neck surgery training program who demonstrates excellence in leadership, research, education, and mentoring.
  • Sponsored the following AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience Panel Presentations:
    • “Leadership Lessons: Strategies for Success”
    • “#What? 2.0: The Dos and Don’ts of Social Media in Otolaryngology”
    • “Bullying in the Workforce: How to Recognize and Respond”
    • “Know Your Worth: Compensation Models”
  • Co-sponsored two panel presentations:
    • “Developing Professional Expertise: Plan, Publish, and Present”
    • “Facing Unconscious Bias in Medicine”
  • Developed the WIO General Assembly program, including the keynote presentation by Nalini Nadkarni, PhD, a forest ecologist and tree canopy specialist, on the process of “Disturbance and Recovery.”

WIO Research and Survey Committee
Deepa J. Galaiya, MD, Chair

  • Developed draft survey questions on the impact of COVID-19 by gender and specialty differences. Questions focus on stress, financial impacts, family needs, children at home, leave/time off, pay equity policies.
  • Committee will propose survey initiatives for 2021 on topics to include mandatory leave, childcare resources, pay equity, the general wellness of women in OTO; sexual harassment in otolaryngology, and issues specific to underrepresented minorities.

Young Physicians Section
David S. Cohen, MD, Chair

BOARD OF GOVERNORS (BOG)

Board of Governors Executive Committee
Spencer C. Payne, MD, Chair
Lance A. Manning, MD, Chair-Elect

  • Continued to push for increased engagement and access to leadership from the private practice community. Toward this end we maintain a minimum of 50% private practice members in our leadership positions and continue to develop products that facilitate optimal involvement of our member societies and their constituents.
  • Submitted and had accepted a Panel Presentation for the AAO-HNSF 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting & OTO Experience titled, “Online Reputation Management.”
  • Continue to leverage the position of the Member-at-Large to organize the Regional Representatives to facilitate bidirectional information flow.
  • Planned an outstanding program for the 2020 Leadership Forum & Spring BOG Meeting, which was unfortunately cancelled due to COVID-19.

Socioeconomic and Grassroots Committee
Andrew M. Coughlin, Chair
Dale A. Tylor, MD, Vice Chair

  • Completed work on the Category III and Unlisted Codes toolkit. The toolkit has undergone rigorous review by the Academy’s advocacy staff and the Academy’s CPT Advisor, and is now available on the website.

Governance and Society Engagement Committee
Boris Chernobilsky, MD, Chair
Samantha Anne, MD, Vice Chair

  • Launched an online interactive map, providing the most up-to-date contact information for national, state, and local member otolaryngology societies.
  • Completed work on a Society Management Toolkit, which is currently undergoing final edits, with plans for it to be turned into a web-based resource in 2021.

Legislative Affairs Committee
David S. Boisoneau, MD, Chair
Jeffrey S. Brown, MD, Vice Chair

  • Worked to increase members becoming grassroots advocates by using the one-click platform on the ENT Advocacy Network website, entadvocacy.org.

More from December 2020/January 2021 – Vol. 39, No. 11