By Bob Katzen
The Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure held a hearing on a bill that would allow Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctors to dispense hearing aids by audiologists in the ENT doctor’s office. Massachusetts is one of only two states that does not allow this. Current Massachusetts law requires anyone needing hearing aids to make a separate appointment with an audiologist outside of an ENT office to obtain hearing aids.
Sponsor Rep. Carole Fiola (D-Fall River) said the proposal would eliminate the need to make multiple appointments and would make treatment seamless and convenient to patients. “There are [currently] numerous obstacles for those who need to go to separate offices to obtain hearing aids, especially those who are caretakers, elderly or with low income, because of transportation and scheduling,” said Fiola.