Board-Certified ENTs in Burbank, CA, Explained: Why It Matters More Than Online Ratings

Today’s modern patients try their best to take on a more proactive role in their health. They do not hesitate to seek professional help and consult with their primary doctor at the early signs and symptoms that something might be wrong. Many do not make the mistake of not properly researching potential healthcare providers, so they take matters into their own hands by conducting proper research on potential healthcare providers.

It’s common for patients to consult patient reviews and online ratings when choosing an ENT care provider. While they do offer some insight, they do reflect individual experiences and should not be indicative of typical patient outcomes. It would be best to consider them along with another important factor: board-certification and credentialing.

This guide is presented by SoCal Breathe Free to guide patients in Burbank, CA, in understanding the basics of ENT board certification.

What Is an ENT?

An ENT, formally known in most medical settings as an otolaryngologist, is a healthcare specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions and diseases affecting the ears, nose, and throat. They are trained to treat a wide variety of conditions, including allergies, chronic sinusitis, ear infections, hearing disorders, and sleep-related breathing disorders.

Depending on the severity of the condition and the scope of their practice, they can provide both non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

Aspiring otolaryngologists must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and finish a medical degree. Then, they must complete five years or more of residency training in otolaryngology. Some ENT physicians may choose to pursue further specialty training to include subspecialties like pediatric otolaryngology, head and neck surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery.

What Is a Board-Certified ENT Specialist in Burbank, CA?

An ENT can officially practice if they have completed medical school and residency training in otolaryngology. These are all requirements to practice ENT medicine. A board certification for ENTs is a voluntary credential that some may wish to pursue later on.

A physician may obtain such certification from the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, or ABOHNS, after completing accredited training, meeting professional standards, and successfully passing board exam requirements.

ABOHNS is a nationally recognized certifying body for otolaryngologists in the United States. It’s a voluntary certification program for licensed medical doctors.

To qualify, physicians must:

• Complete a four-year undergraduate degree program, a four-year medical degree, and a five-year otolaryngology residency training
• Apply for and successfully pass the primary certification examination (which includes both written and oral exams) after residency training
• Complete continuing certification requirements and activities every year to maintain certification status

ABOHNS also offers certification in three subspecialties: Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology, Neurotology, and Sleep Medicine.

Why Board-Certified ENT Care Matters When Choosing an ENT in Burbank, CA

In the United States, a physician needs a license to legally practice in their state. A license is a legal requirement to practice medicine, including for specialists like otolaryngologists. While primary doctors can address some ENT-related symptoms, complex or chronic conditions typically warrant the expertise of board-certified ENTs.

Board certification, unlike a medical license, is not legally required to practice medicine. It’s a voluntary program that licensed physicians may choose to pursue. It indicates that they have undergone specialty training and have successfully completed the requirements set by the ABOHNS.

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

All ENT physicians must have a medical license, but not all ENT physicians are board-certified. What board certification does is provide practitioners with an avenue to continue education and maintain professional standards in their practice.

Why Board Certification Matters More Than Online Ratings

We recognize that patient reviews and online ratings offer insight into patient experiences. However, they reflect individual opinions and are not indicative of typical patient outcomes. While they may be considered when choosing an ENT clinic in Burbank, CA, it’s not the only consideration.

Along with patient reviews and online ratings, board certification can reflect a doctor’s dedication to continued education and adherence to professional standards. It’s one of several key considerations when choosing a potential ENT provider.

• Board certification indicates that a physician has completed specialty training and passed board certification examinations and requirements in their field of specialization.
• It reflects a physician’s commitment to ongoing education, training, and meeting industry-recognized professional standards.
• It provides an avenue for ENT physicians to engage in ongoing learning, which may include important updates and advancements in their field of otolaryngology.

Frequently Asked ENT Questions in Burbank, CA

What do ENTs do?

While a primary care provider (PCP) can address mild and acute ENT concerns, complex and chronic conditions may warrant a visit to an ENT specialist. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, your primary doctor can help determine whether a referral to a specialist is appropriate:

• Chronic nasal congestion
• Frequent ear infections
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears without an external source
• Severe sinus pain and pressure
• Chronic cough
• Persistent sore throat
• Wheezing or hoarseness
• Breathing issues
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Unexplained lumps in the neck or face

Is an ENT and an otolaryngologist the same?

ENT and otolaryngologists are both terms that refer to the same medical specialist.

“ENT” is more commonly used by most people because it’s easier to remember. However, “otolaryngologist” is the official medical term and is preferred by most practitioners because it recognizes that they treat more than just ENT conditions. The latter is also more consistent with the name of the board and certification.

What is the difference between a licensed and board-certified doctor?

A medical license is a legal requirement to practice medicine, including specialists like ENTs. Board certification is not. It is an optional, additional credential that demonstrates specialty expertise. All otolaryngologists are licensed physicians, but not all licensed physicians are otolaryngologists.

Choosing the Right ENT Doctor Near Me in Burbank

If you’re looking for an ENT specialist in Burbank, CA, and the surrounding communities, SoCal Breathe Free is one of several ENT care options in the area.

Our provider, Dr. Hershcovitch, is a board-certified otolaryngologist by the ABOHNS in the Burbank area. You can find more information on credentials and qualifications on our provider page.