President's Corner
Tammy H. Brown, MA CCC-A ABA

Our new year has started and NCSB is excited to engage licensing boards, their administrators, and their members in regulatory topics as many of our boards also come together across the nation in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC). What an exciting time for regulators, professionals, and our consumers! Going into this new world we can support each other in this important work.

Please join me in welcoming our new and re-elected Board of Director (Board) Members: Vickie Pullins (WV), Doreen Oyadomari (AL), Elizabeth Williams (AK), and Katie Brice (TX). Gregg Thornton, administrator of the Ohio board, was elected to serve as President-Elect.  In that capacity he will be responsible for planning the 2023 Fall Conference.  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Larry Molt (AL ), who completed his term on the NCSB Board, for his service and expertise.   

We encourage you to send one or more Board representatives to the 36th annual NCSB conference.  Many involved have commented on the collaboration, learning and support they find at the conference. Plans are underway to bring you an information-filled program related to the world of consumer protection, licensure and professional issues.  We’ll have more details to share about the speakers and topics in the next newsletter, but please save the dates, and we’ll look forward to seeing you at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, NC from October 5-7, 2023. Last year there was an amazing slate of speakers who shared their expertise on emerging topics. Attendees left with ideas to take back to share with their respective audiences.  This is your open invitation to review the conference proceedings on our website for further details. Many of the speakers make their presentations available for download to attendees. Thank you to Doreen Oyadomari for once again working her magic with arrangements!

NCSB hopes you will share your ideas, challenges and stories with us and get to know this fabulous group of collaborators. Sharing in the regulation of the professions is such a privilege.  Now, more than ever, it is important that our role as regulators is being heard and understood and built on solid foundations.  Another exciting year in the journey.

Hope to see you join us!  Remember the mission and the vision of this regulatory association.  Encourage your state licensing board to become a member and share your experiences.

NCSB 35th Annual Conference Report
Oct 13-15, 2022

In Santa Fe, New Mexico from October 13-15, 2022, NCSB hosted its 35th annual conference. The conference opened on Thursday with Board Member Training and began with a statutory authority presentation by a board attorney. Following the statutory authority session in the morning, attendees participated in a mock compliance hearing, a mock disciplinary hearing, examined complaints, and discussed ethical decision-making utilizing board scenarios.

Much of the conference program October 14 and 15 was devoted to the conference theme of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition to the main topic, there was considerable discussion regarding licensure boards, licensure compacts, and other topics that may come before a state regulatory board.

After the welcome, there was a presentation on the topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion, followed by a session on ensuring consumer protection DEI.  A spirited virtual presentation on ableism rounded out the overall conference theme.  The state information exchange provided attendees with the opportunity to share successes and failures while opening the door for much networking among boards.

Case discussions regarding topics facing licensure boards allowed for round table discussions with reporting to the group following the round tables. A virtual presentation by representatives of the National Practitioner Data Bank answered many questions on the minds of licensees. Interprofessional care and its impact on licensure boards, the latest update on over-the-counter hearing aids, and credentialing and testing updates were important topics that provided attendees with current information regarding the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology.

The conference would not have been complete without an update on the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (ASLP-IC) licensure compact. A panel discussion on interstate compacts provided attendees with further information on the current status and future direction of licensure compacts, along with a discussion regarding challenges and advantages of the ASLP-IC).  All regulatory boards were forced to make changes during the pandemic, and a panel of administrators shared some of the things their respective boards have done during this time.  The conference concluded with a discussion of current trends facing boards and their licensees, particularly trends regarding supervision, tele-supervision, and the generational workforce.

Note:  A complete listing of the program and the presenters is available on the NCSB website:

https://ncsb.info/2022/schedule

The NCSB Board of Directors will meet March 3 and 4 to develop the program for the next NCSB Conference to be held October 5-7, 2023, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The program is still in the development stage; however, updates will be provided on the latest hot topics - licensure compacts and issues related to deregulation. Other issues related to the regulation of the professions will be included, and as always, the State Information Exchange will provide attendees with an opportunity to share successes and challenges. If you or your board would like to be involved, either through serving as a presenter or suggesting topics, please contact the Program Chair.

In order to keep boards abreast of NCSB happenings, the minutes of each Fall corporate meeting are published.  Following are the minutes of the 2022 meeting in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

National Council of State Boards of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology Audiology (NCSB)

Corporate Business Meeting – October 14, 2022
Drury Plaza Hotel, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Call to Order: President Amy Goldman called the 35th annual corporate meeting to order at approximately 12:45 PM and welcomed attendees to the annual NCSB Corporate Business Meeting. She explained voting procedures to the members.  When offering or seconding a motion she requested the individual identify themselves and their state, and when voting, only 1 member from a member state would provide the vote for that state.

Sponsors: President Goldman identified and thanked the sponsors of this year’s conference - North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, Ohio Speech and Hearing Professionals Board, West Virginia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, SpeechPathology.com, and Educational Testing Services.  Special thanks also to the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and the American Academy of Audiology for facilitating the continuing education process for the preconference workshop and conference.

Approval of the Agenda: President Goldman asked for approval of the agenda (a copy is included in the Conference handout packet). Motion to approve the agenda was made by Larry Molt (AL,) and Kerri Phillips (LA) seconded the motion.  The motion passed by the NCSB member state representatives; the meeting agenda was approved.

Approval of the Minutes: President Goldman asked for approval of the minutes from the 2021 Corporate Business Meeting (a copy is included in the Conference handout packet).  Motion to approve the minutes was made by Kerri Phillip (LA); Brenda Fairax (WV) seconded the motion. Motion carried, minutes were approved by member vote.

Report of the President: Amy Goldman provided a list of activities and highlights of NCSB over the past year.

Report of the President-Elect: Tammy Brown thanked attendees, thanked the trainers for the Board Member Training yesterday (Theresa Rodgers, Glenn Waguespak, Nahale Kalfas), a big thank you to Doreen for the hotel arrangements and board members for the conference planning.  13 states were represented at the conference this year. Encouraged members to attend 36th conference in Charlotte.

Treasurer’s Report:  Doreen Oyadomari provided a summary of the 2021 budget outcome and the proposed 2023 budget. Motion to approve the proposed 2023 budget by Mark Carroll (AL) and seconded by Amy Goldman. Motion passed by member vote.

Secretary’s Report:  Larry Molt announced that NCSB submitted a poster presentation to the ASHA Convention, the presentation was accepted, it is available to be seen both live and online, presentation is on Friday, Nov. 17  from 12 noon to 1:30 PM, (Session 8268L Screen 113) and is entitled Efficient and Effective Regulation for Audiology and SLP: Meeting Emerging Demands and Opportunities.

Editor’s report: Glenn Waguespack reported that the next newsletter will be coming out in February and to contact him if you have anything to report.  Newsletters can be viewed online on the NCSB website.

Report of the Past-President: Gregg Thornton announced SRA and HA will be announced shortly, after the business meeting is finished.  Reported on elections – ballots have been sent out to all member states. Voting by member states will continue through December 18th.

Old Business: President Goldman asked for volunteers for the NCSB Strategic Planning Committee. There was one volunteer Annette Hurley (NC).  President Goldman will appoint 1 more member.

New Business: President Goldman Presented the awards.  Honors of the Association – Nahale Kalfas   Special recognition award to Patricia Nesbitt, former administrator of the West Virginia Board.

Announcements:  36th Annual NCSB Conference will be in Charlotte, NC from October 5-7, 2023.

Ceremonial Passing of the Gavel: President Goldman passed the Gavel to incoming President Tammy Brown.

Adjournment: President Brown adjourned the meeting at 1:25 pm.

At the Corporate Business meeting, Honors of the Association and a Special Recognition Award were presented to deserving individuals.

Honors of the Association:  Presented to Nahale Kalfas, J.D.  Nahale, who serves as the attorney for the NC Board and also as the attorney for the Council of State Governments, was recognized for her service to NCSB and to the profession as a whole.  She is a past member of the NCSB Board of Directors and for the past two years, has presented a session on statutory authority during the Board Member Training.

Special Recognition Award:  Presented to Patricia Nesbitt from West Virginia.  Patti has been the administrator for the WV Board for many years, and during this time, has been instrumental in making changes that ensure a greater degree of public protection for the consumers in West Virginia.  Although she was unable to attend the NCSB conference this year, she has been an attendee and a participant in past conferences.

NCSB recognizes these two individuals for their contributions to the field of communication disorders and hopes that they will continue to play an important role in NCSB.

NCSB 36th Annual Conference Update
Oct 5-7, 2023

Reservation Method: click the link above to book online or contact the Hotel directly at (704) 547-7444 or 1-800-HILTONS and providing the booking code: NC23.

In addition, the following internet booking link may be used where it won’t be necessary to enter the code since you’ll already be on the group page.

All reservations must be received by the cut-off date on 8-Sep-2023 and guaranteed with a credit card, or by making a deposit by check or money order.  Individual reservations must be cancelled prior to 12AM arrival date to avoid a charge of one-night room and tax.  There is a $75.00 early check out fee for not advising the hotel of any change of planned length of stay at check-in.

Rooms: Make yourself at home in one of the 393 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and LCD televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Cable programming and MP3 docking stations are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Dining: Enjoy a meal at the restaurant or snacks in the coffee shop/café. The hotel also offers room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee.

NCSB Board of Director Voting Results

Elections for vacant NCSB Board of Director positions, as well as for NCSB President-Elect, were held this past year.  Terms begin in January 2023, and those elected to serve include:

President-Elect - Gregg Thornton

Gregg serves as the Executive Director of the Ohio Speech and Hearing Professionals Board.  He  graduated with honors from Howard University in Washington, D.C., receiving a B.A. in political science and his J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.  He is a licensed attorney with over thirty years of experience in state government in the area of administrative law.  He is an affiliate member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, American Academy of Audiology, and International Hearing Society.  He is also a member of the National Council of State Boards of Examiners, having served as President in 2020.  He is one of the five board administrator/public board member delegates appointed to the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) by the Executive Committee and is currently serving as Chair of the ASLP-IC Rules Committee.

Board Member - Vickie Pullins

Having been re-elected to the NCSB Board of Directors, Vickie is a past President of NCSB.  She is the owner and CEO of LinguaCare Associates, Inc., a private practice of speech pathology and physical therapy providing services in hospitals and schools, including the provision of some of these services through telepractice.  She is the secretary of the WVBESLPA and has  represented WV on the ASHA Advisory Council in the past.  Vickie initiated and led the advocacy in collaboration with the Council of State Governments and ASHA to secure the passing of the ASLP-IC, the first state to pass the compact in the nation. Vickie continues to mentor and support her team as they serve children and adults across WV.

Doreen Oyadomari - Board Member

Re-elected for another term on the NCSB Board of Directors,  Doreen received her BS and MS degrees from Florida State University and her doctorate from the University of South Florida. She is retired from the position as Chief of the Audiology & Speech Pathology Service at the Birmingham VA Medical Center. Doreen is a Fellow of ASHA and is a recipient of the Honors of the Association for the Speech & Hearing Association of Alabama (SHAA). She has served on a number of ASHA committees, boards and councils as well as on the ASHA Foundation Board. At the state level, she has served as President of the Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists & Audiologists and was President of the Speech & Hearing Association of Alabama (SHAA). She has been a member of NCSB since 2003, serving as President in 2006 and its conference event planner since 2007.

Elizabeth H. Williams - Board Member

Elizabeth has worked in the field of Speech-Language Pathology in Arkansas for 27 years.  She is currently employed at Fayetteville Public Schools as a Speech-Language Pathologist conducting speech-language evaluations for homeschool students and private school students within the district.  Previously, she was the Speech-Language Pathologist for Root Elementary School in the district from 2007 until 2019.  She was appointed by former Governor Beebe and Governor Hutchinson to serve as a Board member on the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA) and served two terms from June 2014 to 2021. Elizabeth served as Board Chairperson from January 2018 until October 2021. Board experiences include amending Rules regarding licensure process and regulation and testifying on behalf of ABESPA before the Arkansas Legislature Senate and House Committees.

Katie Brice - Board Member

Katie is the Team Lead for the Medical and Health Professions Section of Regulatory Program Management at Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), where she is also the senior program specialist for speech-language pathology and audiology.  Before starting at TDLR in 2016, Katie was the Executive Director for the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and the State Committee of Examiners in the Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments. Katie has a degree in economics from the University of Texas and lives in Austin with her husband, James, sons, Turner and Tait, and stepdaughter, Ava.

NCSB Solicits Nominations for Awards

Each year at its Corporate Business meeting, NCSB recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the professions through involvement with licensure. Two awards have been established to honor individuals, and these include Honors of the Association and the Special Recognition Award.

Briefly, Honors of the Association is intended to recognize an individual for his/her exemplary contributions to NCSB, to a licensing board in the state, or to an individual employed by an organization or other entity that addresses regulatory concerns for the professions.

The Special Recognition Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary commitment and contributions in the area of regulation at the state level. Criteria for these awards and detailed nomination procedures can be on the NCSB website, follow the links above.

NCSB encourages member boards to respond to the Call for Nominations for these two awards. Recipients will be recognized at the Business Meeting Friday, October 6, 2023.
 

NCSB Membership

NCSB encourages interested individuals/board to join NCSB. Categories of membership are as follows:

• Full Membership:  Organizations eligible to apply for Full Membership are those boards, advisory councils, committees, or comparable bodies which conduct and maintain programs for the licensing of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in their respective states or provinces.  The cost for Full Membership is $450.
  
  
• Individual Membership:  This category is available to any individual who presently has served as a member, executive director, administrator, or attorney affiliated with a speech-language pathology and/or audiology board.  Additionally, any SLP or AUD holding current licensure and with an interest in regulatory matters is entitled to apply for this affiliation.  Individual members from states that are member boards in good standing shall receive discounted membership.  The cost for Individual Membership is $35.00 for individuals whose state is a member board and $50.00 for individuals residing in states that do not hold membership in NCSB.
  
  
• Association Membership:  This category refers to organizations that either directly or indirectly provide services to individuals with communication disorders and whose members are impacted by licensing or certification of SLPs and AUDs.  Individuals may also apply for this level of membership; however, membership is restricted to individuals who are members of an organization eligible to apply for Association Membership.  The cost of Association Membership is $450.

Join NCSB on Facebook

Keep up to date on the latest news andinformation from NCSB.  Join Facebook and have access to early announcements of conference locations, accommodations, and programs.  Get “social” with NCSB.  Membership in the Facebook group is open to anyone who is a past or present member of your state’s licensure board in speech-language pathology or audiology, state and national association leaders - or if you are interested in trending information and hot topics related to the regulation of the communication profession.  Invite your friends to “like” and “follow” us.  Connect with your colleagues about timely issues in the professions and share news about what is happening in your state.

Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC)

Considerable attention has been given to the ASLPC-IC, including its development and implementation.  To date 23 states have enacted legislation for the compact in their respective states, and a number of other states are in the process.  Following is general information about the compact as well as an update on its current status.  More information can be obtain from the Council of State Governments and from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Background

The Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Licensing Compact (ASLP-IC) is a cooperative agreement enacted into law by participating states to facilitate the interstate practice of audiology and speech-language pathology while maintaining public protection.  The compact is operational when 10 states have enacted the compact language into law, and a Commission then serves as the administrative body to manage compact.  Compact privilege refers to the authorization granted by a remote state to allow a licensee from another state to practice as an audiologist or speech-language pathologist in the remote state under that state’s law and rules.  The practice occurs in the member state where the patient/client/student is located at the time of the encounter.  The audiologist or speech-language pathologist has a home state of license which is the licensee’s primary state of residence.

Update (provided by Kerri Phillips, Ex Officio)

As of the date of this newsletter, the ASLP-IC has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NCSB to serve as Secretariat for the ASLP-IC. AAA and ASHA have provided MOUs to assist with the startup costs of the compact.  The ADA’s MOU is pending as of the date of this newsletter.

The ASLP-IC Executive committee, Rules Committee, and Finance Committee continue to meet on a monthly basis via Zoom.  The Executive Committee has voted to retain Nahale Kalfas as legal counsel for the Compact. In addition, the Executive Committee has created the Executive Director RFT and will be advertising this as a part-time position.  The Rules Committees is working on the draft data set requirements for the Compact. In addition, the Finance Committee is working on member state survey questions to assist with the development of the Compact.

As stated in the Summer newsletter, a complete listing of committee members and meeting agendas, times and minutes can be found at https://aslpcompact.com/meetings/.

Information regarding news of the Compact can be found at https://aslpcompact.com/commission/.

Rules Committee Update - Gregg Thornton, Rules Committee Chair

The Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) Rules Committee is one of four standing committees created by the Commission.  The Rules Committee develops compact rules, bylaw amendments, and policies for consideration by the Commission and for implementation by the states. It also reviews existing rules and recommends changes to the Commission.  The Rules Committee has met several times since the Commission’s inaugural meeting on January 12-13, 2022.  The Rules Committee meets virtually on the 2nd Thursday of each month. 

As part of the Commission’s rule making process, the Rules Committee prepares draft rules and forwards to the Executive Committee with a recommendation.  The Executive Committee may accept the recommendation for presentation to the full Commission or return the draft rules to the Rules Committee for further changes.  The proposed rules are published on the Commission’s website and sent to the delegates for public comment.

The Rules Committee reviews all comments and revises the proposed rule(s) if needed.  The Member States and Commission posts final proposed rules 30 days before the Commission meeting where it will be voted.  A public hearing will be held if a hearing requirement is triggered pursuant to Sec. 10 of the Compact and Rule on Rulemaking. The Commission sets an effective date and votes must be a simple majority to pass.  Rules may be consolidated for hearings. Committee meetings are open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.  The committee agenda and meeting minutes can be accessed from the Commission’s website at: https://aslpcompact.com/meetings.

Note:  A Special meeting of the Rules Committee has been scheduled for March 16, 2023

Finance Committee Update - Glenn Waguespack

The Finance Committee has met monthly to discuss issues related to a compact budget.  With assistance from ASHA, AAA, and ADA, a draft budget was developed and approved by the Executive Committee. The committee is now in the process of developing a survey to be sent to licensing boards.  The survey contains general information about the establishment of a database as well as specific questions related to the functioning of state licensure boards.  Once the survey is approved by a vote of the Finance Committee, the survey will be sent to the Executive Committee for comments and approval prior to being disseminated to state boards.

Larry Molt, Chair of the Executive Committee and Amy Goldman, NCSB President, sign the MOU designating NCSB as the Secretariat for the ASLP-IC Compact.

ASLP-IC Impact on Audiologists and SLPs

The following information has been summarized from the ASHA website and answers many questions that may be raised by both compact members and by those contemplating the passage of legislation in their respective states.

• The ASLP-IC will certify that audiologists and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) have met acceptable standards of practice, promote cooperation between compact states in the areas of licensure and regulation, and offer a higher degree of consumer protection across state lines.
• Licensed audiologists and SLPs will be able to practice in person or through telepractice across state lines via a privilege to practice.
• The ASLP-IC will increase access to client, patient, and student care and will facilitate continuity of care when clients, patients, and students relocate/travel.
• Audiologists and SLPs will be able to provide services to populations currently underserved or geographically isolated as well as allow military personnel and spouses to maintain their profession when relocating.

Current Status

Before the compact can issue privileges to practice, the ASLP-IC Commission, which is responsible for ASLP-IC oversight, must create required rules and bylaws and implement a data system between the states. This work is currently ongoing, and the compact is expected to be fully implemented in 2023. For more in-depth information on the ASLP-IC, visit the website. You can also find the status of the compact in your states by viewing the compact map.

Audiologists and SLPs Can Learn More About the ASLP-IC and Get Involved

• ASHA Advocacy News: ASLP-IC Progresses to the Next Phase (January 14, 2022)
• The ASHA Leader: 10 States Ratify Compact Allowing Practice Across State Lines (April 2, 2021)
• ASHA Advocacy News: Nebraska Becomes the Critical 10th State to Adopt the Interstate Compact (April 1, 2021)
• The ASHA Leader: 5 States Pass Interstate Compact Legislation (August 3, 2020)
• ASHA Advocacy News: North Carolina, Georgia Become Latest States to Pass ASLP-IC (July 7, 2020)
• The ASHA Leader: West Virginia Is the First of 3 States to Pass Interstate Compact for the Professions (March 12, 2020)
• ASHA Advocacy News: West Virginia Becomes First State to Pass ASLP-IC (March 10, 2020)

Over the Counter Hearing Aids

MUCH HAS BEEN WRITTENREGARDING OVER-THE-COUNTER HEARING AIDS SINCE THE FDA RELEASED THEIR MULTI-PAGE GUIDELINES.  AS MEMBERS OF LICENSURE BOARDS, OUR CONCERN IS THE IMPACT THESE DEVICES MAY HAVE ON THE PROFESSION AND REGULATION OF AUDIOLOGY.    INFORMATION REGARDING THE MANNER IN WHICH LICENSURE BOARDS ARE DEALING WITH THESE AIDS WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE FALL NCSB CONFERENCE.  IN THE MEANTIME, ASHA HAS GENERATED SOME QUESTIONS TO PROVIDE SOME INFORMATION ABOUT OTC HEARING AIDS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Over the counter (OTC) hearing aids are now available for sale online and in many stores. You may have questions about if OTC hearing aids will work for you. Use these FAQ to help you understand important steps in determining the best type of hearing aid for you.

How much will OTC hearing aids cost?

It is estimated that OTC hearing aids will cost less than $1,500 per pair. It is best to consult with a vendor or retailer for exact price.

How will I know if OTC hearing aids will work for me?

The best way to know if OTC hearing aids will work for you is to see an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. This evaluation will show you the degree of hearing loss and the part of the ear—outer, middle, or inner—that is causing your hearing loss. This information, taken together, will help you decide whether an OTC hearing aid is your best choice or if your needs would be better addressed by a prescription hearing aid.

Important Note: OTC hearing aids are purchased based on your own judgment. OTC aids will only work for you if your loss is mild to moderate. It is easy to over or underestimate your hearing difficulty. The most accurate diagnosis is made by an audiologist.

Who can wear OTC hearing aids?

OTC hearing aids may work well for you if you have a mild to moderate hearing loss. They are not effective for a moderate to severe degree of hearing loss. You must be 18 years or older to wear OTC hearing aids. Children should never wear them. You must consult a medical provider before buying an OTC hearing aid if you have any of the following medical conditions:

• ear deformity
• fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear
• hearing loss or ringing (tinnitus) that occurs in only one ear or that is noticeably different in one ear
• pain or discomfort in the ear
• history of excessive earwax or feeling that something is in the ear
• sudden, quickly worsening, or fluctuating hearing loss
• vertigo or severe dizziness

Note: Individuals with cognitive or dexterity issues may not be suitable candidates for OTC hearing aids and should seek a consultation with an audiologist for hearing loss management.

Who can help me pick an OTC hearing aid?

Many places may sell OTC hearing aids: your local pharmacy, big-box stores such as Walmart, or online providers. You will make the decision about what you buy, just like any other item on the shelf. You may be able to ask store staff for help; however, these staff members likely do not have specialized training in hearing loss and hearing technology programming. It is important to read all information on the box before buying a device. You may not be able to return the hearing aids once you buy them.

Audiologists are trained hearing health care professionals with either a doctoral or a master’s degree. They can explain your hearing loss and help you consider the hearing aid that is best for you. Some audiologists will help you with basic maintenance of your OTC hearing aid for a service fee.

Why should I see an audiologist even if I choose an OTC hearing aid?

An audiologist is the expert in hearing health care—they can help you find a device and supply tips for you and your individual hearing needs. They will also be able to check your hearing over time to see if it remains stable or worsens. Regular check-ins are important; they reveal whether your chosen hearing aid (OTC or prescription) is providing enough sound to meet your hearing needs—or whether you and your audiologist should discuss other options. The common goal between you as the patient and the audiologist as the provider is to help you create a plan and a path toward improved hearing.

How do I find an audiologist in my area?

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has a national directory that can help you find an audiologist in your area. Visit http://asha.org/profind/.

Spotlight on Licensure Boards
North Dakota State Board of Examiners on Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology

Each edition of the newsletter provides a spotlight on a regulatory Board.  The information may contain news about the members of the Board, how to file a complaint, and other pertinent information for audiologists and speech-language pathologists living in that state.  State boards are encouraged to submit information about their Board, particularly if there is legislation in process or if there any been any recent changes to the law and/or the rules.  This edition shines the spotlight on North Dakota.

North Dakota State Board of Examiners on Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Board members are industry professionals that volunteer their time, skills and expertise to the advancement of this important profession. Individuals who serve on the Board have the opportunity to develop and grow as leaders, cultivate new skill sets, and expand their network of peers, professionals, community and legislative leaders.

The Board consists of eight members appointed by the Governor. Two members are audiologists, three members are speech-language pathologists, one member is an otolaryngologist, and one is a consumer. Each Board member serves a term of three years. No member may serve on the Board more than two successive term.

Current Board Members:

The board meets four times each year in January, April, July and October.10 CEUS are required each year for license renewal.

Board Support - Brian BarrettBoard Manager - Bill Kalanek

The ND State Board of Examiners is located in Bismarck, ND with the following address:

P.O. Box 1338
Bismarck, ND 58502-1338
(701)775-7165

NCSB Board of Directors

National Council of State Boards

3416 Primm Lane
Birmingham, AL 35216 USA
P: 205-823-6106
info@ncsb.info
http://ncsb.info