Office of Research & Development |
  |
Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
An official website of the United States government
Dr. James Henry, with VA's National Center for Rehabilitation Auditory Research, is a pioneer in the management of tinnitus, a common condition among Veterans. (Photo by Michael Moody)
Dr. James Henry, an audiology researcher widely known for his innovative work on treating and managing tinnitus, is the recipient of the 2015 Paul B. Magnuson Award, the highest honor given to investigators by VA's Rehabilitation Research and Development Service (RR&D).
Henry is a research career scientist at the RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, based at the VA Portland Health Care System. He is also on the faculty of Oregon Health and Science University and Portland State University.
Henry's work is credited with helping large numbers of Veterans and service members. His approach, called Progressive Tinnitus Management, is currently being adopted nationwide in VA and DoD audiology clinics.
Tinnitus and hearing loss are the top disabilities among Veterans. As of 2013, more than 1.1 million Veterans had a service-connected disability rating for tinnitus. Veterans are at higher risk than the general population because of their frequent exposure to loud noises.
The Magnuson Award honors the life and legacy of Dr. Paul B Magnuson, who as a bone and joint surgeon continuously sought new treatments and devices for assisting his patients as they faced unique situations presented by their disability. The award is presented annually to a VA investigator who exemplifies the entrepreneurship, humanitarianism, and dedication to Veterans Magnuson displayed.