Voices of Otolaryngology


The Official AAO-HNS/F Podcast


Learn about the very latest in otolaryngology education, how to get involved with the Academy, news about upcoming events, including the Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, and more!


The views and opinions expressed in any podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily represent the positions, policies, or thoughts of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, its leadership, or its employees.

Featured Podcast

From Frustration to Influence: How The ENT PAC Amplifies Your Voice

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS EVP and CEO, talks with Matthew D. Scarlett, MD, a private practice otolaryngologist in Charleston, South Carolina, and current Chair of the Academy’s ENT Political Action Committee (PAC) Board. Dr. Scarlett breaks down how ENT PAC amplifies the voices of otolaryngologists on Capitol Hill, from securing meetings with lawmakers to advancing bills on prior authorization reform, Medicare reimbursement, and newborn CMV screening.

Dr. Scarlett shares his personal journey into advocacy—sparked by frustration with barriers to patient care—and explains how ENT PAC strategically supports bipartisan lawmakers who can make a difference for physicians. The discussion highlights how the PAC Board prioritizes issues, the importance of member participation, and how easy actions like responding to “Act Now” alerts can significantly impact legislative outcomes.

Whether you’re a seasoned ENT or a trainee new to advocacy, this episode demystifies ENT PAC, encourages engagement, and shows how collective action strengthens the specialty’s voice in Washington, DC.

Wherever you are, and whatever device you are using, you can now listen to each new Voices of Otolaryngology episode as soon as it publishes. The Voices of Otolaryngology episodes are authored by thought leaders from a wide array of physicians within the specialty and offer keen insights on the latest issues affecting you and your patients.

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