COVID-19 Vaccines and Professional Obligations for Otolaryngologists.

Abstract

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recently released a position statement with the following conclusion: "Otolaryngologists have a professional obligation to provide medically indicated care to all patients. They should not use vaccination status as a prerequisite to offer services except in exceptional circumstances. We all have a collective obligation to educate and encourage appropriate best public health practices and evidence-based infection control mitigation strategies including vaccination." We reflect on how this statement is consistent with time-honored principles and professional obligations inherent to the doctor-patient relationship, as well as consonant with the collective lessons that we have learned practicing during the COVID-19 pandemic.