In which of the following situations would an audiologist refer a patient to another physician?

When an audiologist determines that a patient may require surgical intervention for a hearing issue, it is crucial for that patient to be referred to another physician, typically an otolaryngologist (also known as an ENT specialist). This referral is necessary because an audiologist's role primarily involves assessing hearing and related disorders, fitting hearing aids, and providing rehabilitation for hearing impairments.

Certain medical conditions affecting hearing, such as severe conductive hearing loss, otosclerosis, or certain types of inner ear disorders, can necessitate surgical options that are beyond the scope of practice for audiologists. For instance, procedures like tympanoplasty, stapedectomy, or cochlear implantation require specific medical expertise and surgical skill that only a physician can provide. Thus, when an audiologist identifies the need for such interventions, referring the patient ensures they receive appropriate and timely medical care.

Other situations presented, such as the ineffectiveness of hearing aids or the patient's age, do not inherently require a referral to a physician, as these issues can often be managed or addressed within the audiologist's scope of practice. Similarly, patient requests alone do not justify a referral unless a medical evaluation is clearly warranted.