Registered audiologists in Alberta, who have a Practitioner Identification Number (PRAC ID), may refer clients directly to otolaryngologists for consultations in the form of a verbal or written communication (e.g., fax, email, letter).
Audiologists who are registered with ACSLPA and working in Alberta are eligible for a PRAC ID. To obtain a PRAC ID to allow direct referral of clients to a otolaryngologist, follow the steps below.
1. Register with Alberta Health
- Complete the Practitioner/Allied Practitioners Information form on the Alberta Health website.
- Follow the directions on the form to submit your completed form and a copy of your practice permit.
Audiologists are responsible for providing their PRAC ID to otolaryngologists when a referral occurs.
2. Review Protocol for Audiological Referral to Otolaryngology (May 2014; Revised March 2019)
- The Protocol for Audiological Referral to Otolaryngology (May 2014; Revised March 2019) should be referred to when considering potential conditions and determining if it is appropriate to refer a client to an otolaryngologist. The Protocol was developed by regulated ACSLPA members based on a literature review of published and accepted national and international guidelines for referral to otolaryngology. The Protocol has been reviewed and supported by the Alberta Society of Otolaryngology.
- It should be noted that some otolaryngologists may specialize in certain areas only (i.e., pediatrics). It is highly recommended that audiologists communicate with the intended consulting otolaryngologist regarding the type of conditions they may specialize in (i.e., vestibular disorders), prior to making referrals and ultimately initiating a collaborative relationship for the sake of the client.
- As stated in the Protocol, initial concerns may not require consultation with an otolaryngologist, but still require a medical opinion. The family physician or pediatrician is a valuable resource for minor otologic conditions that may be treated by these professionals prior to the client being considered a candidate for referral on to an otolaryngologist.
- In an effort to reduce duplication of services and to ensure a continuum of clinical care, audiological findings and recommendations should be communicated (i.e., verbal or written) to the client’s primary care physician.
3. Additional Items to Note:
- Otolaryngologists require the referral source to provide their individual PRAC ID in order to receive payment for the requested client consultation and ultimately may decline the request if the referral source does not hold a valid PRAC ID.
- Although audiologists will not receive payment from Alberta Health for referring their clients to otolaryngologists, this process will enhance client care, improve access and provide continuity of care.
- Follow-up consultation provided by the otolaryngologist will include a client history, an examination and review of diagnostic data (i.e., audiological consult report, etc.) and provide a written opinion with recommendations regarding treatment to the referring audiologist.