Important Issues

MSDC submitted written testimony this week on legislation that would regulate the sales and fittings of hearing aids. In the letter, MSDC highlighted the value of the physician-patient relationship and an emphasis on whole person health.

The bill, B-23 565 the Hearing Aid Sales Amendment Act of 2019, would permit an adult to seek medical clearance for the purchase and fitting of a hearing aid from an otolaryngologist or any licensed physician. The intent of the legislation is to make it easier for a person to receive a hearing aid without needing to wait for an ENT appointment. 

At the bill's hearing, two of the witnesses praised the legislation's language but suggested the addition of a physician waiver. Their argument was that persons with hearing impairment do not necessarily need the hassle of visiting a physician when they either know what their impairment is or an audiologist can provided the needed medical support.

MSDC argues in its testimony (see below) that before a medical device is inserted into a patient, a whole health exam is a common-sense step to ensure any issues related to hearing are not related to another physical ailment. While audiologists are important parts of a care team for a patient, they do not have the whole body knowledge to diagnose additional medical issues.

The bill likely will be marked up in committee in the coming weeks. MSDC welcomes comments and thoughts from its members and the public.
B23-565 testimony