Preventative care is essential for improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and ensuring long-term wellness. While primary care providers routinely monitor for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, one critical risk factor often goes overlooked—vestibular decline. As patients age, their vestibular function naturally deteriorates, increasing the likelihood of dizziness, balance issues, and falls. The VAT ENGPlus System provides an effective solution for early detection and intervention, allowing providers to expand their preventative care strategies and protect their patients from serious complications.
The Importance of Early Detection in Vestibular Health
Vestibular dysfunction is one of the leading contributors to falls in older adults. Research shows that approximately 85% of dizziness cases originate from vestibular system disorders, yet many of these issues go undiagnosed until a patient experiences a serious fall.
With aging, the vestibular system loses efficiency, reducing a patient’s ability to maintain balance and spatial awareness. Many seniors attribute their dizziness or instability to aging itself, unaware that targeted intervention could improve their mobility and reduce their risk of falling.
Identifying vestibular decline early allows providers to take proactive steps, such as recommending lifestyle modifications, balance training, or physical therapy, before a fall occurs. This preventative approach can significantly improve patient quality of life while reducing hospitalizations and long-term complications.
How the VAT ENGPlus System Expands Preventative Care
The VAT ENGPlus System allows primary care providers to incorporate vestibular testing into routine preventative care. Instead of waiting for a patient to report dizziness or experience a fall, providers can proactively assess vestibular function during wellness visits, particularly for patients at risk.
Key advantages of the VAT ENGPlus System include:
- Non-Invasive Testing – A quick, in-office test that requires only five electrodes and delivers immediate results.
- Early Detection of Vestibular Dysfunction – Identifies both central and peripheral vestibular disorders before they lead to significant mobility issues.
- Supports Proactive Treatment Planning – Helps providers tailor interventions such as vestibular rehabilitation, balance exercises, or medication adjustments.
By expanding their preventative care capabilities with vestibular testing, primary care providers can take a more holistic approach to reducing falls and improving long-term patient outcomes.
Integrating Vestibular Testing into Routine Care
Incorporating vestibular assessments into a primary care setting is a simple yet impactful way to enhance preventative care services. The VAT ENGPlus System is particularly beneficial for:
- Patients identified as a fall risk during their Annual Wellness Visit
- Seniors over 65 who report dizziness, balance issues, or unsteadiness
- Patients on medications that can impact balance, such as antihypertensives or sedatives
With vestibular testing results, providers can confidently recommend follow-up care, whether that includes home exercises, physical therapy, or additional diagnostic testing.
Falls are among the most preventable health risks for elderly patients, yet vestibular dysfunction often goes undiagnosed until significant issues arise. The VAT ENGPlus System equips primary care providers with a powerful tool for early detection and intervention, allowing them to expand their preventative care offerings and provide a higher standard of patient safety.
By integrating vestibular testing into routine patient evaluations, providers can proactively reduce fall risks, enhance patient mobility, and prevent costly hospitalizations. The VAT ENGPlus System isn’t just about diagnosing balance issues—it’s about giving patients the tools they need to maintain independence and quality of life.