A History of Making a Difference

I feel that our Academy has been responsible for my training and education in my specialty. I would not have been able to have become an otolaryngologists. I hope that there will be a third generation.

With all of the guidelines from our government on evidence-based medicine, we must continue to prove that our methods of treatment are effective. The Academy is proving this with research. We weren't put here to be takers, we must give back. I feel that it is my responsibility to give back to help those who follow, the same as those who have preceded me.

-Tom Logan, MD

Otolaryngology Changes Lives

Without otolaryngologists, life would be very different for millions of children, infants, adults, and elderly individuals all over the globe. Debilitating diseases and disorders that afflict the head and neck area, such as laryngeal papillomas and cancer, often shorten an individual's life. Hearing loss and laryngitis harm an individual's ability to communicate. Bronchitis, snoring, and tonsillitis affect an individual's acceptance in society. Sinusitis, sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease often damage a person's productivity, which can lead to tremendous financial burdens. If left untreated, these ailments would impact not only affected individuals, but society as a whole.

Thanks to the work of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and its thousands of members, millions of people who suffer from these illnesses have been receiving the care they need for decades. The association is comprised of an Academy and a Foundation, both of which are committed to helping members make a difference in ear, nose, throat, and head and neck care in a variety of ways, including:

• advancing the understanding and treatment of diseases through research and physician education;
• creating high-quality educational opportunities for the otolaryngology workforce;
• educating the public and patients about the best ear, nose and throat healthcare;
• improving the quality of and access to healthcare; and
• providing critical financial resources for otolaryngology.