Progressive Tinnitus Management

"Progressive Tinnitus Management (PTM) was developed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Rehabilitation Research & Development (RR&D) National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research (NCRAR) with other VA partners. It is a stepped-care approach designed to be maximally efficient to have the least impact on clinical resources, while still addressing the needs of all patients who complain about tinnitus. PTM consists of five levels to provide a systematic framework for providing only the level of services required by the individual patient: (1) Level 1 Referral; (2) Level 2 Audiologic Evaluation; (3) Level 3 Skills Education; (4) Level 4 Interdisciplinary Evaluation; (5) Level 5 Individualized Support; the method was developed by researchers and clinicians who work for the Veterans Health Administration, but is adaptable to any clinic that provides tinnitus services."

Quick Fact

Unprotected, repeated exposure to loud sounds over a period of time can cause permanent inner ear damage.