Impact of physician experience on geriatric ENT care in ambulatory practice

<b>Introduction:</b> As the global population continues to age, ear, nose, throat (ENT) physicians are confronted with increasing challenges in the management of elderly patients. On the other hand, it has been confirmed that physician experience plays a pivotal role in the care of certain demanding patient groups, including the elderly.<b>Aim:</b> To evaluate the impact of physician experience, years in practice, and clinical caseload on the quality of otolaryngologic outpatient care in elderly patients.<b>Materials and methods:</b> A nationwide survey of 115 Polish ENT physicians was conducted (March-June 2025) using a 29-question online form covering physician experience, elderly patient volume, symptoms, and care needs. Associations were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (p < 0.05).<b>Results:</b> In proportion to the increasing number of elderly patients attending outpatient clinics, the prevalence of certain ENT conditions rise, particularly hearing loss (p = 0.00042), dizziness (p = 0.00339), chronic sore throat (p = 0.00002), "runny nose" (p = 0.00048), dysphagia (p = 0.0361), and dysphonia (p = 0.00765). Clinics with more seniors needed more support staff and prescriptions. Senior physicians, compared to younger specialists, reported significantly higher monthly numbers of geriatric ENT conditions, including hearing loss (p = 0.00002), dizziness (p = 0.00171), chronic sore throat (p = 0.00000), and runny nose (p = 0.00845). Experienced doctors also better recognized side effects (p = 0.0243). Early-career physicians were more likely to support dedicated geriatric ENT services (special consultation hours and screening programs) (p = 0.0372). They also reported major difficulties related to access barriers (p = 0.0394). However, the majority across all experience levels recognized value for dedicated services (72%) and identified access barriers (78%).<b>Discussion:</b> Physician experience influences how the needs of elderly patients are addressed. Senior doctors show stronger clinical judgment, while younger ones focus on system improvements. Findings highlight the need for elevating the skills for tailored multidisciplinary care in senior-heavy clinics.<b>Conclusions:</b> Physician experience significantly affected the recognition of ENT conditions and medication side effects, while early-career physicians were more likely to support dedicated geriatric ENT services and reported more difficulties related to access barriers. The findings reflect a strong professional consensus on the need for tailored geriatric strategies in ambulatory settings and intensive training in this field. As demand rises, adapting ENT practice to meet the needs of older adults will be essential.