Thirty Years of AIB – guest post by Joseph Sakumura & Gina Lorenzetti

Posted on March 15, 2022 by AU Bankaitis

The American Institute of Balance (AIB) is a privately held, global healthcare company specializing in the evaluation and treatment of dizziness and balance disorders in children and adults, headquartered in Tampa Bay, Florida. Founded by Richard E. Gans, PhD in 1992, the Institute is known for its innovative world-class patient care, education, and research programs. Currently, over 5,000 healthcare professionals are AIB Certified. AIB licenses, owns, or operates 100 Centers of Specialty Care clinics in 32 US states.

Throughout their 30-year history AIB has grown to be the country’s largest network of neurodiagnostic and rehabilitation balance specialists. The Institute’s mission and vision are rooted in the science and medicine of empowering clinicians to help patients with dizziness, vertigo, and balance dysfunction. It’s education programs have trained over 13,000 physical and occupational therapists and our research, diagnostic, and therapy protocols are used by leading practitioners, hospitals, and universities worldwide.

In 2018, AIB launched its Centers of Specialty Care (CSC) exclusive licensing agreement, a practice development and support program. Through this program AIB supports audiology and medical practices in the addition of vestibular neurodiagnostic testing. The business model is quite simple: utilize the AIB co-branding, on boarding, training, practices and protocols, and support to grow a business unit that ultimately will generate the practice $300,000 – $500,000 in revenue annually. Adding these services allows audiology practices to diversify themselves in markets from retail and big box providers and establish revenue streams that are independent of any hearing aid market volatility.

In addition to this diagnostic revenue, which is all based on an insurance reimbursement model, CSC practices also see an incremental increase in hearing aid dispensing numbers. By shifting practice philosophy from retail to a medical model, practitioners can elevate their brand within the medical and patient communities, which ultimately drives hearing aid sales. Centers of Specialty Care practices strongly agree this has increased physician referrals and grown their bottom line.

The CSC program is ideal for audiology practices who may be interested in offering neurodiagnostic services but are intimidated or overwhelmed by learning a new clinical skill set and business model. The CSC license offers onboarding, training, and support in all 4 key areas of a successful balance practice:

  1. Clinical/technical/report writing
  2. Patient acquisition and marketing
  3. Scheduling and front office staff training
  4. Billing and coding

The American Institute of Balance onboards and trains practices in a unique hybrid model, which pairs online virtual education with hands-on practical competency-based training. The proprietary onboarding process allows practices to be up and running in about 30-60 days. Practices continue to receive extensive support for the duration of the 5-year licensing agreement. AIB also offers an over-read program that takes away practices dependency on needing a vestibular expert in their own facility. AIB has a large network of strategic partners from our CSC program, including 100% financing for all qualified CSC clients, digital ad design, patient acquisition, and much more.

There are many misconceptions within the field regarding vestibular specialized testing including “it requires a lot of space“, “you can’t make any money on these services“, “the equipment is too expensive“, etc. however any AIB customer would tell you this is all misinformation. The criteria for AIB CSC candidacy below outline who may be a good fit.

  • ENT, Neurology, or Audiology practices that range from small single practitioner businesses to large hospitals or healthcare systems.
  • Personal, professional, and financial goals to expand practice offerings, diversity services, and grow revenue.
  • Belief systems and cultural buy-in to providing gold standard care to patients with vertigo, dizziness, and balance dysfunction.
  • 90-100 square feet of space.
  • Strong relationships and brand recognition within the patient and medical communities.
  • Capacity and personnel, including clinicians, support staff, and administrative staff, to support offered services.

Dizziness is the most common complaint of individuals over the age of 65 to their primary care physicians and the third most common complaint of individuals across the lifespan. These conditions effect over 90 million Americans. With the recent advancements in vestibular testing and treatment, revenue generating opportunities, and question marks surrounding hearing aid dispensing over the next decade, there has truly never been a better time to consider the addition of neurodiagnostic vestibular testing within the audiology space. The AIB programs help practices to do well by doing good, produce excellent patient outcomes for an underserved population, differentiate your practice, and add revenue to your bottom line.

We encourage you to visit dizzy.com/csc to learn more about AIB’s Centers of Specialty Care or to complete a FREE practice analysis. Please contact AIB at csc@dizzy.com or 800.245.6442 ext. 208 to schedule a virtual call or onsite visit.

About the Authors:

Dr. Joseph Sakumura is Director of Clinical Innovations at The American Institute of Balance (AIB). He received the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center and completed his residency training at AIB. His primary interests are in the diagnosis and rehabilitation of balance disorders in a broad range of patients, children to adult. Dr. Sakumura is also a faculty member with the Institute and assists AIB’s Partners in Balance affiliates with practice development and in the application of new and emerging technologies.

Gina Lorenzetti is Director of Marketing at The American Institute of Balance (AIB) where she is responsible for strategic and operational management of activities related to marketing and communications. She received the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Marketing and the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication from Central Connecticut State University. Founded in 1992, AIB is internationally recognized as a leader in patient care, research and professional education in the evaluation and treatment of vestibular and equilibrium disorders.

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Next Generation Welch Allyn MacroView

Posted on March 8, 2022 by AU Bankaitis

The popular Welch Allyn MacroView head has been redesigned, offering a more compact head with improved features than the original. The next-generation LED MacroView Basic offers a larger viewing area (3x instead of 2x) and 5x magnification. The extended focal length provides a focus-free design, so the head no longer comes equipped with a manual focus adjustment wheel. The integrated LED bulb is guaranteed for 7 years, eliminating the need for replacement bulbs. For brighter views, use the Welch Allyn LumiView Clear disposable 4.25mm or 2.75mm specula. All Welch Allyn 3.5 power handles and other original MacroView accessories remain compatible with the MacroView Basic head.

Interested in converting the MacroView head into a smartphone video otoscope? Check out the Welch Allyn MacroView Plus. Images may be captured and shared for consultation when using the MacroView Plus otoscope head and the Welch Allyn iExaminer SmartBracket (sold separately) paired with a smartphone and the iExaminer Pro App.

For more information on the MacroView Basic, MacroView Plus or the new Welch Allyn Diagnostic head, contact Oaktree Products at 800.347.1960 and ask for customer service. You can also email Oaktree Products at otp@oaktreeproducts.com.

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COVID-19: Key Mask Updates for Audiologists

Posted on January 20, 2022 by AU Bankaitis

The CDC recently updated their consumer webpage (January 14, 2022 updates) to reflect new mask recommendations to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This update received a lot of press although it targets consumers and remains separate from mask guidance for healthcare personnel. Based on the most recent interim guidance for healthcare personnel issued by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) on September 10, 2021, the current mask options for audiologists employed in healthcare settings are as follows:

  • NIOSH-approved N95 or equivalent respirator during aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs);
  • Respirator approved under standards in other countries similar to NIOSH-approved N95 masks during non-AGPs; OR
  • a well-fitting facemask.1 

While the referenced document does not specifically address what constitutes a “well-fitting facemask”, a report issued by MMWR on February 10, 2021 emphasized that the effectiveness of both cloth and medical procedure masks “can be improved by ensuring that they are well fitted to the contours of the face to prevent leakage of air around the mask‘s edges”.2 While both cloth and medical procedure masks were mentioned in this MMWR report, the more recent CDC interim guidance specifically designates cloth masks for community use and not appropriate for use by healthcare personnel.1 

Another critical point outlined in the CDC’s September 2021 interim guidance document is the call for consideration for using NIOSH-approved N95 or equivalent respirators in clinical situations where multiple factors posing an increased risk of disease transmission may co-exist (e.g. unvaccinated patient, unable to wear mask, providing services in a poorly ventilated area).1 This recommendation is very applicable to the audiology setting and something every clinical practice should taken into account when assessing current infection control protocols.

Footnote: Recognizing that the use of solid face masks may not be possible or appropriate when interacting with individuals with hearing and speech disorders, using a transparent mask is recommended.3

Final footnote: In early April, 2021, the CDC announced it was no longer necessary for health care facilities to implement NIOSH-approved crisis capacity strategies.4-6 In the presence of increase availability and stabilized supply of NIOSH-approved respirators, the CDC recommended promptly resuming conventional use and disposal practices.

References:

  1. CDC (2021). Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html
  2. Brooks JT, Beezhold DH, Noti JD, et al. (2021). Maximizing Fit for Cloth and Medical Procedure Masks to Improve Performance and Reduce SARS-CoV-2 Transmission and Exposure. MMWR , 70:254–257. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7007e1
  3. CDC (2021). Strategies for optimizing the supply of facemasks.  Available: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/face-masks.html.
  4. FDA (2021). Considerations for Selecting Respirators for Your Health Care Facility. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/considerations-selecting-respirators-your-health-care-facility
  5. CDC (2020). Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of N95 Respirators. Posted April 22, 2020. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirators-strategy/index.html
  6. FDA. Non-NIOSH Approved Respiratory Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Available: https://www.fda.gov/media/136664/download

For more information on audiology-related AGPs, see:

NOTE: The information is based on current CDC recommendations which are supported by evidence and science. It is critical for audiologists to follow state, county, and local mandates, including the direction provided by the public health department of your individual state. Be sure you know how contact the health department of your individual state and stay connected with them along with other state, county and local authorities to keep informed about COVID-19 in your community.

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Seize the Day with an Amazing Otoscope/Ear Light Bundle

Posted on November 16, 2021 by AU Bankaitis

Looking for a meaningful gift for an AuD student you may be supervising? Take advantage of this special Luxamed offer from Oaktree Products while supplies last….because once stock is gone, the offer is gone.

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Connect with Innovative Thinkers in ENT, Medical Audiology and More at FCOM

Posted on October 5, 2021 by AU Bankaitis

The Florida Combined Otolaryngology Meeting (FCOM) will take place in an inclusive hybrid format, both in-person at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples, and as a virtual event online, November 5-7, 2021. FCOM will provide all participants the opportunity to learn, connect and forge positive professional relationships with peers from throughout the U.S. and across the globe. Session tracks including Ear, Nose & Throat, Medical Audiology, Otology – Medical Audiology, Advanced Practice Provider, and Business. With more than 120 unique sessions for attendees to choose from, the conference offers something for everyone with registration starting as low as $59 (virtual)!!

Who Should Attend?

The FCOM is a combined meeting that includes the Florida Society of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Florida Society of Facial Plastics & Reconstructive Surgery, Network of Florida Otolaryngologists, and Network of Medical Audiology Professionals. The meeting features world-renowned otolaryngologists, plastic surgeons, medical audiologist, advanced practice providers and industry leaders presenting on what they consider the most pressing, innovative and newly emerging issues, techniques and tools within their disciplines today. All interested healthcare professionals involved in ENT are encouraged to register for this event including but not limited to audiologists, audiology assistants, physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, administrators, and students.

Sample of Medical Audiology Session Tracks:

Pre-Convention Seminars

  • Diagnosis & Non-Surgical Treatment of Vestibular Disorders in ENT. Richard Gans, PhD, Joseph Sakumura, AuD, Kim Rutherford, PT, DSc
  • Cognitive Screen Essentials: Elements of Patient Care & Practice Success. Jill Davis, AuD, Abigail Sweeney, AuD, Lori Adams, AuD

General Sessions

  • Keynote: Hearing Loss, Cognitive Decline & Dementia. Frank Lin, MD, PhD
  • Panel: Future of Audiology – How Medicine & Technology will Impact Care. Moderator: Dave Fabry, PhD. Panelists: Bill Facteau, Paul Harkness, Camille Dunn, PhD, Stephan Huhn, MD, Richard Gans, PhD
  • Brain Changes in Age-Related Hearing Loss: Effects of Early Intervention with Hearing Aids. Anu Sharma, PhD

Other audiology-focused topics include radiology, decision-making considerations in surgical and non-surgical management of conductive hearing loss, tinnitus, cochlear implant team care models, Medicare expansion Earlens, 3D ear scanning and more. Click AGENDA to see the full conference program and SPEAKERS to see diverse line-up of presenters across all session tracks.

Patricia Ramos, AuD, co-founder and president of the Network of Medical Audiology Professionals, is very excited about the expanded scope and relevancy of this year’s FCOM, expecting more than 1,500 attendees from all over the world. “The national and international draw of this meeting continues to grow, largely because it brings together the right mix of related specialties in an area of medicine that is best served by collaborative, coordinated, patient-centered care and we attract an audience who knows that,” said Ramos. “FCOM will include a strong focus on the very partnerships needed to provide the best outcomes for patients.“

How To Register

To register for FCOM, visit FCOMnow.com/register. To learn the ins-and-outs of this year’s conference, click MEETING FORMAT for a review of session formats that include onsite only, LIVE broadcast, Premier, Premier+, and On-Demand. Check out the FAQ’s for more information about the conference. Follow @FCOMNOW on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and under the hashtag #FCOM and #FCOM2021.

https://fcomnow.com/register/
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C-Mics™ HearHooks™ Makes it Much Easier to Hear in Difficult Listening Situations

Posted on September 27, 2021 by AU Bankaitis

Noisy places, outdoor spaces, mask requirements, and social distancing pose communication challenges even for those with normal hearing. The new C-Mics™ HearHooks™ offers up to 20 dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratios.1 This wireless system enables two-way communication via low-profile, clip-on talker/listener units (C-Mics) that direct speech into the ears by way of an open-ear earphone (HearHooks). The system offers up to seven hours of use on full-charge with an operating range up to 30 feet.

The product is available as a two-, four-, or six-unit system.  The two- and four-unit systems are straightforward; the two-unit system is designed for two people while the four-unit system is designed for up to four people. The two-unit system includes two C-Mics and two binaural HearHooks whereas the four-unit system includes four C-mics and four binaural HearHooks.

The six-unit system is slightly different as it was designed specifically to accommodate the unique communication needs of the surgical environment. Precise communication must occur between the surgeon, circulating nurse, and anesthesiologist yet a host of confounding variables, including equipment noise and masking requirements, can make it difficult to communicate in an operating room. In addition, students often observe surgical procedures as part of their education and training; in these cases, students need to hear the communication amongst the surgical staff but not necessarily be heard. This is why the six-unit system comes packaged with four C-Mics, two Listener-only units, and six monaural HearHooks as it allows 2-way communication for up to four people with the ability to add two additional individuals as listeners only. These are sometimes used behind the glass up in the surgical control room, where students may be allowed to listen to a loudspeaker connected to one of the Listener-only units.

For more insight on the product, be sure to read these quick case studies compiled by Dr. Mead Killion including stories from a banquet, hiker, and physician. To place your order, contact Oaktree Products toll-free at 800.347.1960 or place your order online at OaktreeProducts.com.

References:

  1. Killion, MC (2020). Problems understanding speech in noise: measurement, prevention and mitigation. Inaugural lecture of the Killion Lecture Series for the American Auditory Society, March 5, Scottsdale, AZ.
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Escaping the Hidden Prison of Auditory Processing Disorder – Angela Loucks Alexander

Posted on September 15, 2021 by AU Bankaitis

My colleague and friend, Dr. Angela Alexander, shares a personal story that inspired her passion and her goal to help more people understand Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). For nearly 20 years, she has helped hundreds of clients by evaluating and treating their auditory processing difficulties. While it may take a bit of courage to take that step, listen to her story. Wow.

Angela, thank you for your courage. Thank you for generating APD awareness. Thank you for sharing your story. Click HERE for more information on APD information and support.

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Stock Investment Tip: Buy Now

Posted on August 9, 2021 by AU Bankaitis

Not that long ago, demand for disinfectant wipes outpaced supply, creating long delays in getting product in hand. As supply stabilized, inventory commitments made during the critical supply shortage period started coming in, creating an overstock situation of disinfectant wipes. Based on the current situation, here’s a stock investment tip when it comes to Opti-Cide MAX EPA-registered, hospital grade disinfectant wipes: buy now.

Opti-Cide MAX (160 disinfectant wipes per canister) is a broad-spectrum disinfectant with a 30-second to 1-minute kill time for most microorganisms. It’s low alcohol (20%) formula is safe on many clinical surfaces including acrylic, chrome, aluminum, and plastic. Here is the best news: during the month of August 2021, buy 6 canisters of Opti-Cide MAX get 6 additional canisters for free. The fast-drying formula has a 15-month shelf life with an expiration date of October 2022. Not only is there plenty of stock, you have plenty of time to use up the supply. Place orders on-line, via email (otp@oaktreeproducts.com) or phone (800.347.1960). Note: use item# SPEC-M60034 and enter quantity of 1 to purchase 6 canisters and to get 6 free (for a total of 12 canisters).

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