Understanding Tinnitus Clinical Care in the Veterans Health Administration and Department of Defense: Overview of Survey Results

Abstract

Purpose: In 2021, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Department of Defense (DOD) Tinnitus Working Group conducted a survey of DOD and VHA clinicians to evaluate clinical services provided for tinnitus. Method: The online survey included a mix of multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Respondents included VHA and DOD health care providers in audiol-ogy, otolaryngology, mental health, and primary care, as well as DOD hearing conservation technicians. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 669 providers responded to this combined survey. Results indicated that compared to DOD and VHA providers in other fields, audiologists tended to be more confident and more aware of their role in tinnitus management. In terms of confidence and scope of practice, DOD mental health care providers were the group least familiar with tinnitus care. Other results explored herein include barriers to tinnitus care, facilitators for progressive tinnitus management programs, interventions and patient materials offered, new patient materials wanted, and respondents’ preferred information sources and training methods. Conclusion: Survey results indicated that more directed education and support are needed to increase DOD and VHA clinicians’ awareness of the need for tinnitus services and their roles in providing that care. Supplemental Material: https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27229215