HSU DMSc Student Selected to Present Research at Statewide PA Conference

Webb’s presentation, “The Normal-Looking Ear: Why ‘Wait and See’ Is a Medical Error in Sudden Hearing Loss,” was chosen through a competitive selection process that drew 70 speaker submissions from across the state. She will serve as the opening speaker for the conference, presenting on Sept. 17 at the Margaritaville Lake Resort on Lake Conroe in Montgomery, Texas.

The presentation addresses sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), a medical emergency that is often overlooked because a patient’s ear can appear completely normal during examination.

“As a PA specializing in otolaryngology, I frequently see patients who are referred only after weeks of waiting for their hearing to improve,” Webb said. “Unfortunately, those delays can have devastating consequences, as prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to preserving hearing and preventing permanent disability.”

Her research highlights the risks of relying solely on a normal-looking ear exam and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Webb hopes her presentation will encourage healthcare professionals to reconsider a “wait and see” approach and make greater use of simple diagnostic tools that can help identify sudden hearing loss before permanent damage occurs.

“I want them to think twice about what they are seeing,” she said. “I also want them to dust off their tuning forks and remember that this is an invaluable diagnostic tool. It costs patients nothing and can play a critical role in identifying sudden hearing loss.”

Webb said she was surprised and honored when she learned her presentation had been accepted.

“The conference organizers shared that this year’s submissions were exceptionally strong, making it a highly competitive selection process,” she said. “I assumed my presentation probably would not be selected. I was incredibly thankful to be chosen.”

She credits much of her success to the guidance and mentorship she received through HSU’s DMSc program.

“The Doctorate of Medical Science program helped prepare me by challenging me to dig deeper and conduct thorough literature reviews,” Webb said. “The education I received from all of the professors was invaluable.”

She specifically highlighted Dr. Perry, Dr. Rose, and Dr. Robinson for their feedback, encouragement, and investment in her professional development. Webb noted that faculty mentorship helped strengthen both her article and its transition into a continuing medical education presentation.

For Webb, who is a seasoned clinical PA, the program provided opportunities to expand her skills as an educator, researcher, and leader.

“This program was invaluable for me as a seasoned clinical PA transitioning into academia,” she said. “It challenged me to become a better educator and to teach my students using the most current evidence-based practices.”

Looking ahead, Webb plans to continue pursuing research and professional presentations, particularly in the areas of PA student health, healthcare provider burnout, lifestyle medicine, and sudden hearing loss awareness. Her long-term goal is to educate healthcare professionals at the national level and help prevent avoidable hearing loss through earlier diagnosis and treatment.

She also encourages current and future HSU students to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.

“My biggest piece of advice would be to find a topic that truly excites you or sparks your curiosity,” Webb said. “Once you’ve invested the time and effort, take the chance and submit your work. You never know what doors may open, what opportunities may come your way, or how your work might positively influence the lives of others.”

Webb said presenting at a state conference was never something she envisioned for herself, but the confidence and preparation she gained through HSU helped make the opportunity possible.

“This accomplishment will stay with me throughout my career and continue to open doors for professional growth,” she said. “I am grateful for the knowledge, skills, and confidence I gained through this experience.”