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

Noise that’s too loud, too close, or that lasts too long can damage the inner ear and cause noise-induced hearing loss, or NIHL.