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Workshop Price $1095-Physicians

Workshop Price $595-Technicians

Technicians - please call to register. Proper ID will be required for the discounted rate.

This workshop is designed for physicians and technicians that have the need to evaluate and treat patients who suffer from Dizziness, Vertigo, Unsteadiness and Propensity to Fall. Physicians today are seeing more and more of these patients as the population of elderly is growing daily. Medicare is estimating the total cost to treat these patients who suffer injuries related to falls will reach 20 billion dollars by 2020.

The reality is dizziness, disequilibrium and vertigo are often poorly localizing symptoms and are difficult for patients to describe. Often diagnostic work-ups (MRI) provide low yield and treatment options are limited with disappointing results. Long term vestibular suppressant therapy (ie. Meclizine) can prolong the disability and prevent the formation of central compensatory mechanisms which are important for recovery from vestibular defecits. Recovery at best is often incomplete and the patient remains at risk for falls.

A coordinated approach has been shown to improve outcomes for this group of patients. To meet this need, we have assembled a diagnostic program with proven, standardized protocols. Using technology of Videonystagmography, a more specific diagnosis is possible (differentiating peripheral from central vestibular pathology) and, subsequently, a more individualized and effective therapy program. Testing includes oculomotor performance, positional testing, rotational testing, caloric measurements and computerized balance assessment.

This workshop has been designed to be easily implemented into an existing practice. The average reimbursement is between $1300-$2500 per patient for combined diagnostic scan, balance and training. No special certifications are typically required for the technician when performed under a physician's supervision.

You will be exposed to an up-beat classroom with hands-on training where physicians and technicians from all over the country will come together to learn, experience and network all aspects of VNG, balance diagnostics, re-training and therapy.

Course Objectives:

• Physicians: Learn how to accurately and effectively identify and evaluate patients who have dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness and those who are at risk of falling.
• Physicians: Understand how to evaluate, read, interpret and form an impression for VNG testing from the raw data produced by the VNG machine.
• Technicians: Understand how to operate the VNG machine.
• Technicians: Recognize the necessary techniques to properly perform VNG testing.
• Recogize technology and protocols for VNG testing.
• Understand who is a candidate and how these services will be beneficial to your patients.
• Be exposed to marketing/advertising strategies so you can offer to new and existing patients.
• Understand how to implement these services into your practice.

This activity has been submitted to the AAFP for review for up to 12 Prescribed Credits.