Hearing aid dispensers: practice: cerumen management: apprentice license.
By introducing the apprenticeship framework, AB 780 recognizes existing methods of training and licensing adapted to the realities of the profession, addressing the challenges faced by over 1,100 licensed hearing aid dispensers in California. The bill not only improves access to trained professionals for patients in need of hearing aids but also updates the continuing education requirements, making special provisions for the inclusion of cerumen management and tympanometry courses. This reform is seen as a step toward enabling licensed dispensers to offer a broader scope of services which can enhance patient care and satisfaction.
Assembly Bill 780, introduced by Assembly Member Brough, aims to amend the Business and Professions Code specifically regarding hearing aid dispensers. The bill expands the definition of practices conducted by licensed hearing aid dispensers to include cerumen management and tympanometry. These practices will be authorized for patients aged 18 and older, responding to the need for qualified professionals in managing ear wax and providing comprehensive hearing evaluations. Additionally, this bill establishes an apprentice hearing aid dispenser license, intended to facilitate the entry of new professionals into the field by allowing them to gain necessary experience while supervised by a licensed practitioner.
The legislative sentiment around AB 780 has generally been supportive, particularly among those who advocate for improved healthcare access and streamlined training pathways. Proponents argue the bill will benefit individuals with hearing difficulties by ensuring that more qualified dispensers are available to meet demand. However, there are some concerns raised regarding the potential for minimizing care standards due to the newly permitted range of practices that will require robust regulation to ensure patient safety.
A notable point of contention includes the expansion of the crime of perjury in cases where licensees provide false statements regarding their training. Critics express concerns that this provision may deter potential entrants into the field due to the potential criminalization of minor infractions. Furthermore, the requirement for supervision and rigorous training, while necessary for maintaining quality, has sparked debate about the balance between easing licensing processes and ensuring high-quality care.