ENT Specialist
An ENT specialist, or otolaryngologist, is a medical doctor trained in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The designation stands for ear, nose, and throat. Within the specialty, some otolaryngologists subspecialize in otology (ear disorders) or neurotology (disorders of the ear and skull base).
ENT specialists can prescribe medication, perform surgery, and manage conditions such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss caused by structural abnormalities, tumors of the ear or temporal bone, and surgical candidacy for cochlear implants or bone-anchored hearing aids. In clinical practice, audiologists and ENT specialists work together regularly. An audiologist may refer a patient to an ENT specialist when test results suggest a medical or surgical cause for hearing loss.
In Canada, ENT referrals typically come through a family physician, though direct referral pathways vary by province.
