Ear Tube Priority Pathway
Faster care for children with recurring ear infections
The Ear Tube Priority Pathway at Children's Mercy helps children with recurring ear infections get evaluated and treated by pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists. We've designed the process to help families move from concern to care with expert pediatric support every step of the way.
No referral is required.
Why families choose Children's Mercy
At Children's Mercy, everything we do is designed specifically for children and their families. Children are not just small adults. Your child is cared for by specialists who focus exclusively on pediatric care, including board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric ENT surgeons and board-certified pediatric anesthesiologists. Their specialized training helps provide the highest level of care before, during and after surgery.
Families benefit from:
- Board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric ENT surgeons.
- Advanced practice providers (APPs) with pediatric expertise.
- Board-certified pediatric anesthesiologists.
- Pediatric recovery nurses focused on safety and comfort.
- Pediatric audiologists who help monitor hearing and development.
- Child Life specialists who help children feel comfortable and prepared.
- A patient- and family-centered care experience designed around children's unique needs.
About the Ear Tube Priority Pathway
The Ear Tube Priority Pathway was created to help children with ongoing ear infections receive prompt evaluation and treatment. The program simplifies scheduling and evaluation, so children who may need ear tubes can be seen quickly by pediatric ENT specialists.
Conditions we evaluate
The Ear Tube Priority Pathway is designed for children experiencing:
- Three ear infections within 6 months or 4 ear infections within 12 months.
- Persistent middle ear fluid.
- Hearing concerns related to chronic ear infections.
- Conditions that may require ear tube placement.
How the Pathway works
Step 1: Contact us
Choose the option that works best for your family:
- Online: Fill out our short form. Our team reviews the information and contacts you within 1 to 2 business days to schedule an appointment.
- Text: Text TUBES to (816) 239-3002. You'll receive a link to complete our online form. Our team reviews the information and contacts you within 1 to 2 business days to schedule an appointment.
- Call: Contact our ENT nurse at (816) 234-3040 with questions or assistance.
Step 2: Clinic visit
Your child will be seen by a pediatric ENT advanced practice provider who works closely with our pediatric ENT surgeons. We'll review your child's symptoms, medical history, and treatment options to determine the best next steps.
Step 3: Treatment planning
If ear tubes are recommended, we'll help schedule surgery with the first available board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric ENT surgeon. Many children needing ear tube placement alone can be scheduled within 1-2 weeks of their clinic visit. If your child requires additional procedures, timing may vary.
Priority Pathway at-a-glance
Contact us
↓
Clinic visit
↓
Personalized treatment plan
↓
Ear tube surgery (if recommended)
↓
Recovery and follow-up care
Our team will guide you through each step and answer questions along the way.
Preparing for your appointment
Before your appointment:
- Complete any registration forms sent by our team.
- Have information available about previous ear infections and treatments, if possible.
- Ask your child's doctor to send any relevant records or hearing test results before your visit, if available.
- Bring any records requested by your care team.
Meet your care team
Learn more about the specialists and care team members who may care for your child.
When surgery is needed, your child will be cared for by a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric ENT surgeon and a board-certified pediatric anesthesiologist who specialize in caring for children.
Frequently asked questions
No. A referral is not required to participate in the Ear Tube Priority Pathway.
Our team typically contacts families within 1 to 2 business days after receiving a completed form.
Your child will be evaluated by a pediatric ENT advanced practice provider who works closely with our pediatric ENT surgeons.
Children with frequent ear infections, persistent fluid in the middle ear, or hearing concerns may benefit from an evaluation. In general, we consider an evaluation for ear tubes when a child has had 3 ear infections within 6 months or 4 ear infections within one year. Every child is unique, and the decision to place ear tubes depends on several factors, including your child's symptoms and hearing. Our team will carefully assess your child and discuss whether ear tubes are the best option.
Many children needing ear tube placement alone can be scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks of their clinic visit. If additional procedures are needed, timing may vary.
Some children may benefit from a hearing evaluation. Your care team will determine if testing is recommended.