As the UAB Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery continues to expand access to specialized patient care, Allison Seamon, PA-C, lead Advanced Practice Provider (APP) in the department, has achieved a milestone that reflects both innovation in practice and a commitment to improving patient outcomes.
Seamon is now licensed and credentialed to administer therapeutic Botox, making her one of the first APPs in Alabama to receive approval following recent changes to state regulations that allow APPs to perform the procedure.
Working alongside Benjamin J. Greene, M.D., in the UAB Facial Nerve Clinic, Seamon has developed a particular passion for caring for patients with facial palsy and other facial nerve disorders. For these patients, therapeutic Botox can play a critical role in restoring facial symmetry and improving quality of life.
"I am proud and satisfied to be able to offer a new skill," Seamon said. "It feels good to break into this market. I think it will make me more competitive as a provider."
Unlike cosmetic Botox treatments, therapeutic Botox for facial nerve disorders requires a highly specialized approach. Providers often target multiple facial muscles to help improve symmetry, facial movement, and appearance. Seamon also uses Botox to help cancer patients experiencing cervical fibrosis and muscle spasms following radiation therapy, providing meaningful relief from symptoms that can significantly affect daily life.
"It's all very rewarding, as patients get a lot of relief from this treatment," she said.
The new credential will allow Seamon to expand access to care for a growing patient population. She plans to establish a dedicated clinic several days each month focused on therapeutic Botox treatments for facial nerve and head and neck cancer patients.
The additional clinic availability is expected to help reduce wait times for patients seeking care through the Facial Nerve Clinic, where demand for appointments continues to grow.
For Seamon, the achievement represents more than a personal milestone. She sees it as an example of how UAB Otolaryngology continues to embrace new opportunities that enhance patient care while expanding the role of advanced practice providers.
"I think it is a progressive move and reflects very well for the department, as we are trying to optimize APP practices at UAB," Seamon said.