Community Provider Corner

(From the June 2025 Issue of Medstat)

In-office Ear Tube Placement

The Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology has initiated a program performing ear tube insertion without the need for general anesthesia. The procedure is performed in the office setting, typically during the first consultation, allowing for expedited care.

The program is targeted for children 16 months and younger who are deemed appropriate candidates by the evaluating provider. The in-office setting obviates the risk of general anesthesia, the need for fasting prior to a procedure and allows the child to return to normal activities with minimal downtime. In addition to eliminating risk of general anesthesia, the in-office setting reduces the overall cost of the surgery.

The ENT team has performed over 500 in office ear tubes since 2023 and has received very positive feedback from parent survey. Over 99% of parents responded favorably.

If you have a patient who may need further consultation for recurrent ear infections or ear tube placement, ENT can provide self-scheduling options or referral intake at NationwideChildrens.org/ENT.

Measles: Provider Resources

Nationwide Children’s has recently updated detailed measles resources for community providers as cases continue to be confirmed throughout the nation. Measles testing should be considered for patients presenting with compatible signs and symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis and disseminated rash), especially those with an epidemiological risk factor (e.g., known or suspected measles exposure, international travel, travel to an area with ongoing measles outbreak and/or unvaccinated against measles).

Current documents can be found by visiting the Measles Resources webpage at NationwideChildrens.org/for-medical-professionals. These include resources for the testing referral process, a measles toolkit, a frequently asked questions for clinicians and resources to share with patient families.

Access the Ask A Specialist Live event recording with Nationwide Children’s infectious diseases and epidemiology teams with an update on the current state of measles and an open forum by clicking here. Use passcode: MpGs792K.

Wellstone Center Muscular Dystrophy Conference

July 19, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This educational program is designed for parents, caregivers, and individuals living with muscular dystrophy. Learn about the latest advances in research, clinical trials, and how these developments are shaping future therapies and treatments. There is no charge to attend, but registration is required.

For more information: Community Education Program | Nationwide Children's Hospital.

Diabetes Management Education

August 18 and September 17, 1 to 4 p.m.

This engaging, three-hour accredited course is designed for health care professionals, families and caregivers who support children with diabetes. Build the knowledge and confidence needed to provide safe, effective diabetes care in school, day care and home environments.

Topics include:

  • Using glucose meters, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps
  • Responding to hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, including ketone management
  • Understanding the role of nutrition, exercise and medication in diabetes management

Cost: $10 per person (includes all materials and instruction)

Accreditation: 2.75 ANCC contact hours for qualified attendees.

Register at NationwideChildrens.cloud-cme.com. For questions, call Community Education at (614) 355- 0589 or email Sheri.Brock@NationwideChildrens.org

Heart Center Family Conference

Your patient families are invited to attend the Heart Center Family Conference: Healthy Hearts, Healthy Habits on Saturday, September 27, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Education Center. This free event is designed to support individuals impacted by congenital heart disease, as well as their caregivers. Attendees will explore topics like lifelong heart care, nutrition, exercise, mental wellness and more. Childcare is provided for ages 3-12. For more information, contact Melissa Ferruso at Melissa.Ferruso@NationwideChildrens.org.