Gavin Setzen, MD, Honored with AAO-HNS National Spirit of Private Practice Award

Albany ENT & Allergy Services Celebrates Dr. Gavin Setzen's Achievement

On October 20, 2026, Albany ENT & Allergy Services, also known as AENT, celebrated a significant milestone in the realm of private medical practice. Dr. Gavin Setzen, the organization's President and CEO, was honored with the esteemed 2026 Otolaryngology Private Practice Section (OPPS) Spirit of Private Practice Award, bestowed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS).

This award, presented during the OPPS General Assembly at the 2026 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting OTO EXPO in Los Angeles, signifies Dr. Setzen's unwavering commitment and impressive contributions to the private practice model within the healthcare system. The criteria for this honor focus on leadership, innovative practices, patient care quality, advocacy, and staff development—all of which have been epitomized by Dr. Setzen's tenure at AENT.

Dr. Setzen has been at the helm of AENT since its establishment in 1997, and under his guidance, it has grown to become the most comprehensive and successful independent otolaryngology practice in New York's Capital Region. Recently, the practice expanded with a new clinical location in Saratoga Springs, enhancing its ability to deliver essential ENT and related specialty care to the entire Capital Region.

Expressing his appreciation for the award, Dr. Setzen remarked, "Private practice has been at the center of my professional life for nearly three decades, making this recognition particularly meaningful. Independent practices can combine exceptional care with innovation and the ability to evolve with healthcare. I'm proud of what our physicians, providers and staff have built at Albany ENT and am honored by this recognition from the Academy."

Dr. Nora Perkins, Senior Partner at AENT, played a crucial role in Dr. Setzen's nomination for this award. As First Vice Chair of AAO-HNS OPPS and Chair of its Business of Medicine Committee, she acknowledged Dr. Setzen's embodiment of the award's values. "Gavin has shown that independent practice can be both innovative and sophisticated while remaining dedicated to patients, physicians, and communities," she stated. "His efforts to promote the future of private practices have made a significant impact."

Throughout his career, Dr. Setzen has held various prestigious positions within the AAO-HNS, including past president and board member, and has earned several accolades for his contributions. His recognition as a ‘living legend’ with an inaugural induction into the AAO-HNS Hall of Distinction in 2021 and honors like the Distinguished Service Award reflect his deep involvement and dedication to the field.

In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Setzen is a Director of the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and serves as a Clinical Professor in the same specialty at Albany Medical College. His research underscores the integration of science and practice, with exciting advancements that include NIH-supported studies and numerous peer-reviewed publications.

Drew Franklin, Chief Strategy Officer at AENT, accompanied Dr. Setzen during the award presentation and expressed, "I've witnessed Gavin’s deep belief in private practice—not merely as a business model, but as a means for physicians to maintain accountability to their patients, staff, and communities. Witnessing his peers acknowledge his lifelong commitment to this path was truly a remarkable experience."

About Albany ENT & Allergy Services

Albany ENT & Allergy Services offers comprehensive care encompassing an onsite surgical center and urgent care facilities dedicated to treating both adults and children experiencing disorders related to the ear, nose, throat, and head and neck areas. With multiple locations across Albany, Clifton Park, and Saratoga Springs, AENT specializes in allergy diagnosis, immunotherapy, invasive procedures, and sleep medicine. This commitment to quality and comprehensive service solidifies AENT's reputation as a leader in the field.

For more information, contact Jennifer Brandt at 518-512-8419 or via email at [email protected].