Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński, MD, PhD, DSc, MSc, from the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing in Poland, has been appointed to the American Otological Society — one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious scientific societies in the field of otology.
The appointment took place during the 159th Annual Meeting of the American Otological Society, held in Phoenix, Arizona, in the United States. Prof. Skarżyński is only the second Pole in history to become a member of this elite organisation.
His nomination is not merely a personal distinction. It is also a strong reminder that Central Europe is home to physicians and researchers whose work is recognised at the highest international level. In fields such as otology, audiology and hearing rehabilitation, Polish medicine has become a visible and respected part of global scientific exchange.
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A Recognition Reserved for Leading Specialists
Membership of the American Otological Society (AOS) is granted to specialists who meet demanding scientific, clinical and ethical criteria. Applications are accepted annually until 1 September, and candidates are assessed on the basis of their professional integrity, standards of patient care, clinical excellence and contribution to the development of otology.
The evaluation also includes the candidate’s role in generating new medical knowledge, scientific innovation, mentoring, teaching excellence, leadership and active involvement in otological organisations and societies.
In other words, AOS membership is not a ceremonial title. It is a recognition of sustained and measurable contribution to the advancement of ear medicine and hearing science.
A Polish Name in an Elite International Circle
Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński joined a group of 15 newly admitted members. The first Pole in history to be admitted to the American Otological Society was Prof. Henryk Skarżyński, MD, PhD, DSc, Dr h.c. multi — one of the most recognisable figures in modern hearing medicine.
The admission of another Polish specialist to AOS strengthens the position of Poland, and more broadly Central Europe, as an important centre of expertise in otology, audiology and hearing rehabilitation. For a region too often described mainly through politics, markets or historical memory, such achievements show another dimension: advanced medical knowledge, institutional continuity and world-class clinical practice.
Prestige and Responsibility for Polish Otology
“Being a member of the American Otological Society means to me not only joining a prestigious otological society, but also a great distinction for Polish otology, of which I am a part, and a commitment to responsible and hard work for progress in otology and the rehabilitation of people with hearing impairment,” said Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński of the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing.
In February 2026, Prof. Skarżyński was also honoured with the prestigious Health Ambassador Award, granted by the Institute of Business (Instytut Biznesu).
American Otological Society
The American Otological Society is one of the oldest and most respected scientific societies in the world, bringing together outstanding specialists in otology — the branch of medicine dealing with diseases of the ear and hearing disorders.
The organisation focuses on the development of scientific research, medical education and the improvement of treatment standards for patients with diseases of the hearing organ. Membership in AOS is widely regarded as one of the highest distinctions in this medical field.
Prof. Piotr H. Skarżyński — International Medical Profile
Prof. Piotr Henryk Skarżyński, MD, PhD, DSc, MSc in Management, is a specialist in otorhinolaryngology, paediatric otorhinolaryngology, audiology and phoniatrics, as well as public health.
He serves as Director for Science and Development at the Institute of Sensory Organs and as Deputy Head of the Department of Teleaudiology and Screening at the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing.
Prof. Skarżyński holds positions in the governing bodies of major international scientific organisations. He is, among others, a founding member of the World Hearing Forum at the World Health Organization, a board member and representative of the International Society for Telemedicine and eHealth, and President of the International Advisory Board of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery for the 2024–2025 term.
His scientific activity includes the implementation of dozens of national and international research projects, including work related to digitalisation and the use of artificial intelligence in the diagnostics of sensory organs. He has received more than 100 individual and team awards for achievements in scientific, clinical, educational and implementation-related activity.
Central Europe’s Medical Talent on the World Stage
Prof. Skarżyński’s appointment to the American Otological Society is another example of how Central European medicine is no longer simply catching up with global standards, but actively helping to shape them.
In an era of ageing societies, increasing numbers of children with auditory processing disorders and widespread exposure to noise, expertise in prevention, early diagnosis and hearing rehabilitation is becoming increasingly important. Specialists from Poland and the wider Central European region are contributing to this work not from the margins, but from within the leading international institutions of medical science.
Prof. Piotr Henryk Skarżyński has for years combined clinical, scientific and organisational work with educational activity addressed directly to patients and their families. His appointment to AOS confirms that this model of medicine — rooted in Central Europe, but internationally connected — can gain recognition on the most demanding global platforms.
Central Europe Report, Economy / Source: Agencja Informacyjna / Photo: Światowe Centrum Słuchu / 6.05.2026
