Maryland House Bill HB830

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22

Caption

State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists - Physician Members - Repeal

Impact

The passage of HB 830 would result in a more streamlined board focused solely on professionals who are actively engaged in the practice areas they oversee. This change is anticipated to strengthen regulatory practices by ensuring that the advice and decisions of the board stem from those who have direct experience and understanding of the professions, risks, and standards of care, thereby potentially improving service delivery and consumer protection in these fields.

Summary

House Bill 830 seeks to amend the existing makeup of the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists by removing the requirement to have physician members on the board. This reform reflects an emphasis on representing those who are directly active in the fields of audiology and speech-language therapy, thereby enhancing the expertise and relevance of the board members in making decisions about practices in these areas.

Contention

While the proposed bill aims to make the board more representative of the actual professions it governs, there may be concerns from existing stakeholders about the removal of physician input, which could be deemed necessary for ensuring medical oversight and interdisciplinary collaboration. Opponents of the bill may argue that the absence of physician members could undermine the board’s ability to address medical aspects of audiological and speech-language practices effectively.