Remote Practice of Allergy

The decision to test for allergy should be based on first-hand knowledge gained by an individual history and physical examination. The results of allergy testing must be interpreted in light of these findings. The decision to treat with immunotherapy should be based not just on the results of skin or in vitro testing, but on a first-hand knowledge of the patients status. If immunotherapy is chosen, it should be administered under the supervision of a physician who has received proper training in the administration and adjustment of immunotherapy, and concomitant pharmacotherapy. The selection of antigens and initial dosage, escalation of dosage, alterations in dosage (due to increased exposure, local or systemic reaction, complicating infections, etc.), and length of therapy should be the responsibility of a properly-trained physician who is in contact with the patient.

Adopted 9/12/92
Submitted for Review 4/13/95
Submitted for Review 3/1/98
Reaffirmed 3/1/98
Reaffirmed 9/17/07

Guidelines are not a substitute for the experience and judgment of a physician and are developed to enhance the physicians' ability to practice evidence-based medicine.

Important Notice

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inc. and Foundation (AAO-HNS/F) Policy Statements are guidelines only. In no sense do they represent a standard of care. The applicability of an indicator for a procedure, and/or of the process or outcome criteria, must be determined by the responsible physician in light of all the circumstances presented by the individual patient. Adherence to these guidelines will not ensure successful treatment in every situation. The AAO-HNS emphasizes that these policies should not be deemed inclusive of all proper treatment decisions or methods of care, nor exclusive of other treatment decisions or methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results.