ENT

When people notice their vision blurring, they will frequently dash off to the eye doctor. Not so with hearing loss. It often goes ignored and undiagnosed until it becomes unbearable. Dr. Courtney Voelker is trying to change that. She’s a neurotologist, a head and neck surgeon who specializes in diseases of the ear and related structures. She spends much of her time giving the gift of hearing to her patients using cochlear implants. These near-magical devices restore hearing after an intricate two-hour, outpatient surgery. They help newborns get on the path to mainstream development and cognition. Dr. Voelker has watched many toddlers light up when they hear the world for the first time. Cochlear implants help older adults avoid the isolation and cognitive decline that comes with hearing loss. With Bluetooth technology, cochlear implants are becoming almost bionic in their capabilities. They can connect to sound systems in music venues or classrooms. Listen to this episode to find out how Dr. Voelker is opening up access to the world of sound for all.

Young scholars who are college graduates with a bachelors or associates degree can find an exciting and fulfilling opportunity in the medical field at the Medical Assistants In Training (MAT) Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Physician mentors and experienced MAs guide trainees through the 2-3 year program where they learn important and relevant skills to care for patients in the ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialty area. To learn more contact 310-477-5558. https://www.pacificheadandneck.com/

Though cochlear implants are incredibly useful in improving patients hearing, there are still many misconceptions and myths that surround them. For example, it's a common misconception that deafness is a requirement for cochlear implant eligibility. Another myth is that the implant requires intensive and invasive surgery. Dr. Rebecca Lewis tackles a few of the most common myths and sheds light on the truth behind them. Rebecca (Becky) Lewis, AuD, is an audiologist and the Audiology Director of the Adult & Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. She also holds the position of Adjunct Professor at Mount Saint Mary University / John Tracey Deaf and Hard of Hearing program. She has provided rehabilitative services including hearing aids, hearing protection, Osseo integrated devices, auditory brainstem implant and cochlear implant (CI) services to adults and children. For more information: 310-477-5558