Voice Care

If you’re experiencing voice, airway or swallowing problems – such as hoarseness, coughing or narrowing of the airway – our laryngologist specialists can help. Laryngologists are ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists who focus on these problems. 

We also partner with the Gender Care Clinic to offer gender-affirming voice services.

What to expect:

Your first visit will start with a survey so we can learn more about your general health and the symptoms. Once we meet and discuss the survey, we’ll work together to establish a path forward. 

Many patients need a camera exam of the throat, called a laryngoscopy, to help evaluate symptoms. This exam is usually performed through the nose. It’s also sometimes performed through the mouth. We offer topical medicine to make this exam more comfortable. 

Once we’ve identified a diagnosis, we’ll explain the condition and review treatment options together. Treatment options may include: 

• Medication.
• Behavioral changes.
• Surgical therapy.
• Speech or voice therapy.

We sometimes coordinate with other Nebraska Medicine experts, including: 

• Speech-language pathologists.
• Pulmonologists.
• Gastroenterologists.
• Anesthesiologists. 

This multidisciplinary treatment helps ensure coordinated, comprehensive care.

Often our Voice Care patients have anxiety about communicating over the phone. We encourage all patients to sign up for One Chart | Patient, our electronic health record system. OneChart | Patient allows you to communicate directly with your care team online after your initial consultation.

Why you should choose Nebraska Medicine for Voice Care:

Voice, airway and swallowing conditions can significantly affect quality of life.  Our team works closely with you to create a treatment plan centered on you and your personal goals. 

Our specialists, Christopher Bingcang, MD, and Jayme Dowdall, MD, are the only two fellowship trained laryngologists in the state of Nebraska. 

After completing ear, nose and throat training, both doctors completed an additional year of advanced fellowship training focused on: 

• Voice disorders.
• Care for professional vocalists.
• Airway disorders.
• Swallowing problems.

Both doctors are also singers themselves. Dr. Dowdall holds a special certification in performing arts medicine, so they understand how important and personal these conditions can be. 

Amber Koch, MS, CCC-SLP, is a certified speech-language pathologist who specializes in voice and upper airway disorders.

Speech-language pathology – often referred to as voice therapy in the laryngology setting – can play an important role in recovery.  It may seem strange to seek therapy for hoarseness, coughing or breathing concerns, but Amber uses many techniques to help facilitate control for your symptoms. 

Call 800.922.0000 to make an appointment if you’re ready to work with Nebraska’s voice care experts.