HR1106: HR1106 Audiology Practice Modernization Act; urge state-wide support for passage

26 LC 52 0977 House Resolution 1106 By: Representatives Schofield of the 63rd, Davis of the 87th, Scott of the 76th, Mitchell of the 88th, and Clark of the 108th A RESOLUTION Urging state-wide support for passage of the "Audiology Practic e Modernization Act," to1 modernize the scope of the practice of audiology; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, audiologists are essential healthcare professionals who help diagnose, treat, and3 manage hearing loss and balance conditions related to vestibular disorders and dysfunction;4 and5 WHEREAS, in the United States approximately two of every 1,000 children are born with6 a detectable level of hearing loss in one or both ears and one in eight people12 years of age7 or older have hearing loss in both ears; and8 WHEREAS, more than 15 percent of Georgians have some form of hearing loss with higher9 concentrated rates in rural areas; and10 WHEREAS, otolaryngologists, audiologists, audiology assistants, hearing aid dispensers, and11 hearing instrument specialists play a vital role in providing quick and safe hearing healthcare12 services; and13 H. R. 1106 - 1 - 26 LC 52 0977 WHEREAS, clarifying the scope of the practice of audiology will increase patient access to14 hearing healthcare services, ensure patient safety, uphold high standards of care, improve15 workforce efficiencies, and reduce healthcare costs; and 16 WHEREAS, the practice of audiology has evolved with improvement s in healthcare,17 research, education, technology, service delivery, product type, and product availability, so18 the law on the practice of audiology needs to evolve as well.19 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that20 the members of this body urge state-wide support for passage of the "Audiology Practice21 Modernization Act," to modernize the scope of the practice of audiology.22 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized23 and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution avai lable for distribution to the24 Governor, the Commissioner of Insurance, the commissioner of pu blic health, the25 commissioner of community health, and all members of the Georgia General Assembly.26 H. R. 1106 - 2 -