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Gail Murray, Ph.D., CCC-A, is director of University Hospitals' Audiology Services and clinical director of the Cochlear Implant Program, one of the largest in the nation. More than 600 implants (100 in 2011 alone) have been performed at UH in the past 10 years. "It's about appropriate, aligned specialty care that's in the patient's best interests," says Dr. Arnold. "And because we have a community arm, we offer easier access for patients whose primary care physicians want them to be seen by an otolaryngologist." The Community Ear, Nose and Throat Center, managed by UH's fellowship-trained otolaryngologists and surgeons, including Drs. Hassan Abbass, Fadi Abbass and Steve Houser and overseen by Dr. Tony Reisman, is a virtual 'center' through which primary ENT physicians in Northeast Ohio provide care under the auspices of the UH ENT Institute in a wheel-and-spoke model. For years, UH has reportedly enjoyed very close relationships with many primary otolaryngology groups in the communities the hospital system serves. Now the groups who are associ- ated with the new institute follow the same quality initiatives, standards of practice and evidence-based guidelines to ensure consistency of care. This, according to Dr. Megerian, is simply a formalization of long-standing relationships. By working with ENT doctors through Northeast Ohio who enjoy their independence but want the benefits of being associated with a major medical center, UH can expand patient access to its services quickly and efficiently. In return, the ENT doctors receive educational sup- port, research opportunities and concierge referral networks. "What's unique is that families can see our team at so many accessible locations throughout Northeast Ohio, based on what's easiest for them," says Dr. Megerian. "We're an institute that truly embraces community access." In addition, Dr. Megerian notes the importance of research — specifically, the ENT Translational and Basic Science Research Center. Here, three full-time researchers, funded by NIH and other sponsored grants, find cures and treat- ments for some for some of the most pressing issues in ENT care. "Surrounded by ENT physicians and patients, our researchers design experi- ments around needs. It's practical research for real patient issues," he says. And because this Research Center is part of the ENT Institute, patients have easy access to the latest treatments and clinical studies. Dr. Megerian notes that UH ENT Institute offers unique benefits to all physi- cians who are part of the organization, as well as to their patients. "The multi-disciplinary approach enriches the work environment which helps us retain exceptional practitioners and recruit new ones. Plus, the teaching and research aspects foster collaboration between subspecialists while giving students and fellows access to a diverse group of teachers," he says. "The end result is that we're breaking down walls between specialties and creating a patient care experience that's much richer than ever before." For more information about University Hospitals Ear, Nose and Throat Institute or to refer a patient, call 216-844-6000 or visit UHhospitals.org/ent. ■ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2012 MDNEWS.COM MD NEWS Cleveland-Akron-Canton | 23