A patient may see an ENT doctor after they receive a referral from a GP or other clinician.

Standard ENT appointment consists of:

• Detailed history taking (paediatric or adult patient).
• Examination of the ears with otoscope or microscope, depending on the case.
• Examination of the nose and throat: using simple instruments for paediatric patients OR using thorough endoscopic examination for adult cases using flexible nasendoscope (FNE). FNE gives a detailed view and inspection of both nasal cavities, postnasal space (nasopharynx), voice box and vocal cords, and the top part of opening of the food pipe (oesophagus). The endoscopic view can be shown to a patient on a screen.
• Neck examination to detect any lymph node enlargement or neck lumps of a different origin.
• Discussion of examination findings.
• Diagnosis and discussion of possible treatments which could be advice, medication or surgery.

Since conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat can be very complex, the ENT specialist may also refer the patient to other specialists such as an allergist, neurologist, oncologist or audiologist (if a patient has a hearing condition).