UPDATED 1/12/2021: http://www.austintexas.gov/covid19-vaccines

Happy New Year to all!!

Here at the start of 2021 and throughout this year, the Texas Academy of Audiology will keep you informed on the latest news affecting the profession of audiology in Texas.

On everyone's minds at the moment is finding out the latest COVID-19 vaccine information.

Click here to view the information provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

UPDATE 12/29/20: Click here for Texas locations providing the vaccine.

VACCINE PHASE

Who can get the vaccine?

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING & REGULATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2020
Tela Mange
Public Information Officer
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
512.463.3208

Agency advises that emails be deleted without clicking on the link

AUSTIN – An unknown number of people appear to have been targeted with an email that asks them to validate their profile information with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. TDLR did not send the email, and the agency urges anyone who received it to delete the email without clicking on the link or confirming or providing any personal information.

A TDLR licensee alerted the agency to the scam email. TDLR notified the Texas Department of Information Resources, and the TDLR Information Security team is investigating.

The email appears to come from TDLR but has a return email address that does not belong to the agency. Recipients are falsely told that TDLR is requiring all licensees to validate their information no later than Dec. 24, 2020, or their next license renewal could be delayed. TDLR sent no such email.

If someone clicked on the link in the email, TDLR is advising them to reset their password on their TDLR account – and any other accounts they may have that use the same password.

It appears that the link in question is no longer active, but everyone is reminded to protect their personal information while they’re online:

• Never disclose your password to anyone, even a customer service representative from TDLR.
• If you are providing personal information to a state agency – or any company – make sure the site is encrypted before providing any personal information. Look for a key or lock on your screen. But do not assume this is safe, be sure you are connected to Texas.gov
• Use unique passwords when setting up an account. Don’t re-use passwords and avoid using your date of birth, Social Security number, or simple words as a password. Use a password manager to assist in creating and tracking secure passwords.
• Avoid sending personal information via email unless the security method used is specifically outlined and the data is encrypted.
• Use a secure browser.

About TDLR

TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 39 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state.

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

The State of Texas has made its determination as to who will be included within Phase One- by establishing Tier One and Tier Two.  Not all emergency room doctors or hospitals are included in Tier One and even Nurses are in Tier Two.  The following is the details of who is in the STATES Tier One and Tier Two….. How quickly we move into the next phase is dependent on the supply of vaccines going forward.

Phase 1A: Health Care Workers Definition

First Tier

1. Hospital staff working directly with patients who are positive or at high risk for COVID-19. Includes:

a. Physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists and other support staff (custodial staff, etc.)

b. Additional clinical staff providing supporting laboratory, pharmacy, diagnostic and/or rehabilitation services

2. Long-term care staff working directly with vulnerable residents. Includes:

a. Direct care providers at nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and state supported living centers

b. Physicians, nurses, personal care assistants, custodial, food service staff

3. EMS providers who engage in 9-1-1 emergency services like pre-hospital care and transport

4. Home health care workers, including hospice care, who directly interface with vulnerable and high-risk patients

5. Residents of long-term care facilities

Second Tier

1. Staff in outpatient care offices who interact with symptomatic patients. Includes:

a. Physicians, nurses, and other support staff (custodial staff, etc.)

b. Clinical staff providing diagnostic, laboratory, and/or rehabilitation services c. Non 9-1-1 transport for routine care

2. Direct care staff in freestanding emergency medical care facilities and urgent care clinics

3. Community pharmacy staff who may provide direct services to clients, including vaccination or testing for individuals who may have COVID EVAP Principles & Health Care Workers

4. Public health and emergency response staff directly involved in administration of COVID testing and vaccinations

5. Last responders who provide mortuary or death services to decedents with COVID-19. Includes:

a. Embalmers and funeral home workers who have direct contact with decedents

b. Medical examiners and other medical certifiers who have direct contact with decedents 6. School nurses who provide health care to students and teachers

April 9, 2020 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

Governor Greg Abbott has temporarily waived a series of regulations to lift certain telehealth restrictions and expand telehealth options as Texas responds to COVID-19. These waivers will allow a smart phone or any audio-visual, real-time, or two-way interactive communication system to qualify as a telecommunications technology that can be used to provide certain telehealth services. These waivers apply to speech-language pathologists and audiologists, behavior analysts, hearing instrument fitters and dispensers, and dyslexia therapists and practitioners.

"As the State of Texas works to limit the spread of COVID-19, we also want to make sure that Texans have access to the health services they rely on," said Governor Abbott. "By temporarily waiving these regulations and expanding telehealth options, more Texans will be able to access the care they need while still following social distancing practices."

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING & REGULATION

Governor Approves Regulatory Suspensions to Facilitate Services to Speech-Language Pathologist and Audiologist Clients During the COVID-19 Pandemic

APRIL 9, 2020

To help combat the spread of Coronavirus, TDLR requested and received authority from Governor Greg Abbott to suspend certain regulatory requirements, to the extent necessary, to allow licensees of the Speech-Language Pathologist and Audiologist program to provide more services to clients through telehealth and to ease other licensing restrictions.

These suspensions are in effect until terminated by the Office of the Governor or until the March 13, 2020 disaster declaration is lifted or expires. In accordance with Section 418.016 of the Texas Government Code, the Office of the Governor has granted TDLR’s request to suspend the following provisions:

Supervision:

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) interns may now receive direct supervision through telehealth. The SLP internship is at least 36 weeks and 1,260 hours, divided into three (3) segments with no fewer than thirty-six (36) clock hours of supervisory activities to include:

• six (6) hours of direct supervision per segment by the supervisor(s) of the intern's client contact in which the intern provides screening, evaluation, assessment, habilitation, and rehabilitation; and
• six (6) hours of indirect supervision per segment with the supervisor(s) which may include correspondence, review of videos, evaluation of written reports, phone conferences with the intern, and evaluations by professional colleagues.

As a result of the suspension, all supervision hours—both direct and indirect—may be conducted through telehealth (suspension of 16 TAC §111.2(15), (23), and (25) and §111.213(c)).

Under a previous suspension granted by the Governor, SLP assistants may receive 100 percent of their monthly supervision through telehealth. Supervisors must provide a minimum of four hours of direct supervision each month and four hours of indirect supervision each month. Supervisors may use telehealth for both direct and indirect supervision (suspension of 16 TAC §111.51(g)(1) and (4); §111.2(14), (23), and (24); and §111.213(b)(1) and (2)).

Audiology assistants may now be supervised for all assigned tasks through telehealth (suspension of 16 TAC §111.2(14), (23), and (24); §111.91(f) and §111.216(b)).

Audiology interns are allowed to be supervised for all assigned tasks through telehealth (no suspension of the rules was required).

Practice:

For all licensees approved to provide telehealth services:

• A smart phone, or any audio-visual, real-time, or two-way interactive communication system, qualifies as telecommunications technology and may now be used to provide telehealth services, as well as telehealth services related to fitting and dispensing hearing instruments (suspension of 16 TAC §§111.210(7)-(12), §111.213(d), §111.216(c), §§111.231(9)-(12) and §§111.232(b), (d) and (i)).
• The same code of ethics and professional standards apply whether a client is seen via telehealth or an in-person visit as required under 16 TAC §111.212 and §111.215.

SLP interns:

• SLP interns may now provide services to clients remotely using telehealth (suspension of 16 TAC §111.210(5)).

SLP Assistants:

• SLP assistants may now provide services through telehealth, as directed by their supervisor, according to the SLP assistant practice and duties under 16 TAC §111.52 (suspension of §111.210(5)).

Audiologists and Audiology Interns:

• Audiologists and audiology interns who fit and dispense hearing instruments through telehealth are no longer required to conduct an initial professional contact in person at the same physical location (suspension of 16 TAC §111.232(j)).

Services provided through telehealth must be performed with the same standard of care as in-person health care and within the licensee’s scope of practice and competence. The equipment used must be appropriate for the situation and properly working as required under 16 TAC §111.232(h) and (i).

Facilitators:

If a facilitator assists with the provision of telehealth services, no prior training is necessary if the provider determines that the facilitator has the competence needed to assist with the services given (suspension of 16 TAC §111.232(e) and (f)(1)).

Licensees who need additional information on billing policies relating to the provision of telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic should contact Texas Health and Human Services Medicaid or managed care organizations (MCOs), as policies are changing rapidly. It is critical to check with your payor before initiating a new type of service or service delivery model, such as telehealth.

Before providing telehealth services, licensees should verify the applicability of other requirements and obligations, such as HIPAA and other medical and personal privacy requirements.

You received this message because you are subscribed to the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Important Notices topic for TDLR.

Your Voice Matters

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) invites you to join us for our 2020 Strategic Planning Sessions!

TDLR will host collaborative sessions around the state with our licensees and stakeholders during March and April 2020. These sessions are your opportunity to share with us your ideas and opinions about how we’re doing, and how we can improve. Your feedback during these sessions will help us chart the course for TDLR’s future.

TDLR’s 2020 Strategic Planning Sessions will be held on the dates and in the cities listed below. No RSVP or registration is required—sessions are free and open to everyone.

https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/stratplan.htm

SAVE THE DATE! More details on exact locations and times will be announced soon:

Even if you can’t attend our sessions in person, we still want to hear from you:

• We’re sending all TDLR email subscribers an online customer service survey to complete beginning March 23, 2020.
• You can present public comments regarding strategic planning during upcoming advisory board and Commission meetings.
• Strategic planning questions are posted on TDLR’s social media pages now throughout March, and your responses will be included in our strategic planning analysis. See social media links below.

Ideas and suggestions from strategic planning sessions do make a difference. We make policy and rule changes based on your feedback, and we share your feedback with state lawmakers. Your ideas can create real change for Texas.

Keep up with the latest information about 2020 Strategic Planning on the TDLR website and on social media:

• Facebook: TDLR and TDLR-Health
• Twitter: @tdlrlicense and @TexasFights (Combative Sports)

We look forward to hearing from you!

Please note: TDLR is mindful of the risk posed by COVID-19 and encourages its employees to take action to prevent its spread, including washing hands frequently, staying home if feeling sick, and avoiding close contact with people who are ill. We encourage anyone planning to attend these meetings to take similar precautions. Depending on the continually developing circumstances surrounding COVID-19, TDLR may cancel or postpone some of these meetings. Please visit https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/stratplan.htm for the latest meeting updates.

I have been asked to distribute the following information from the Governor’s Office to all stakeholder groups.  Please see below:

On September 19,  in accordance with Sections 418.016 and 418.171 of the Texas Government Code, Governor Greg Abbott temporarily suspended all necessary statutes and rules to allow a healthcare professional licensed and in good standing in another state to practice in various facilities in Texas to assist with disaster response operations for Tropical Storm Imelda. Read more at https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-declares-state-of-disaster-as-severe-weather-hits-texas.

The suspension allows a healthcare provider who holds a license, certificate, or other permit issued by another state jurisdiction satisfying qualifications for professional, mechanical, or other skills to render aid in this state to meet an emergency or disaster.

This suspension is in effect until terminated by the Office of the Governor or until the disaster declaration is lifted or expires.

For the healthcare provider types listed below, a healthcare facility must submit to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) by email each out-of-state provider’s name, license type, state of licensure, and license identification number to: [email protected].

TDLR licenses the following healthcare providers:

•Athletic Trainers

•Behavior Analysts

•Dietitians

•Dyslexia Therapists and Practitioners

•Hearing Instrument Fitters and Dispensers

•Midwives

•Orthotists and Prosthetists

•Podiatrists

•Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists

If you have questions or need assistance, please call (800) 803-9202 between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. CDT or email [email protected].

Hello Austin Audiologists:

As most of you know by now – we lost a “sister” Austin audiologist almost two weeks ago in a tragic accident.  Dr. Aamna Najam was a newly minted AuD from the University of Texas who was just beginning her journey to change the world and help folks communicate better with better hearing.  She was excited to be back in Austin and working for AnyPlace MD.

Many have wondered how we could help celebrate her life and share her joy with other like-minded students who would be entering our noble field.  Her sister, Zara has reached out to give us scholarship information in Aamna’s name.   I personally will be giving to this scholarship fund to help keep her memory alive and legacy going forward.   Thank you, Zara, for sharing.

Please keep her family and friends in your prayers as they mourn her untimely loss.     Rest in Peace Aamna – you are missed.

Dr. Aamna Najam Memorial Scholarship for Audiology

The Texas Academy of Audiology Nominations Committee announces the following nominees 2020 TAA Board of Directors:

President-Elect Nominee: Kelli House

Member-at-Large Nominee: Carmen Landry

Member-at-Large Nominee: Tracy Board

Member-at-Large Nominee: Alexander Morris

Voting will be held Oct 4 @ 1:00 pm at the TAA Annual Business Meeting held during the 2019 TAA Conference at the Embassy Suites Hilton Dallas-Frisco Hotel and Convention Center, 7600 John Q. Hammons Dr. Frisco, TX 75034.

Nominations may be made from the floor.  

Jami Brooks, Au.D. 

TAA Past President

Seventeen audiology doctoral students represented Texas universities at the State Capitol in Austin, TX on March 1st, 2019. In collaboration, students from the University of North Texas, University of Texas at Austin and Dallas, and Lamar University joined forces to promote World Hearing Day and National Day at Your State Capitol (NDYSC). These initiatives by the World Health Organization and Student Academy of Audiology, respectively, are worldwide and national campaigns to enable and empower student advocacy for the future of audiology.

Click here for HB 490 FAQs for Parents, and/or see below.

HOUSE BILL 490: HEARING AID & COCHLEAR IMPLANT LEGISLATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR HOUSE BILL 490

Note: The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

During the 2017 legislative session, HB 490 was enacted to require insurance coverage for hearing aids and Cochlear implants for children up to age 18. This document is published by Texas Academy of Audiology to assist Parents in understanding the law.

What does the law provide?

• Amends Chapter 1367, (Insurance Code), coverage of children, by adding Subchapter F, as follows: “Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants “Requires that a Health Benefit Plan (HBP) provide coverage for the cost of a medically necessary hearing aid or cochlear implant and related services and supplies for a covered individual who is 18 years of age or younger.”
• Coverage under the section is required to include certain treatments and services related to hearing aids or cochlear implants; and is limited to one hearing aid in each ear every three years and one cochlear implant in each ear with internal replacement as medically or audiologically necessary.

When is the effective date of the law?

• The effective date is September 1, 2017
• The change in law made by this Act applies only to a health benefit plan delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2018
• A health benefit plan delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed before January 1, 2018, is governed by the law as it existed immediately before the effective date of this act, (September 1, 2017) and that law is continued in effect for that purpose.
• Before you begin the process of acquiring hearing aids for a child 18 or younger, check with your health insurance carrier to verify the specific date on when your coverage became renewed and/or effective. If your plan renewed prior to January 1, 2018, you would not be eligible for this act until the following year. If your policy renewed on or after January 1, 2018, you would be eligible for this act in 2018.

What if my plan has a high deductible?

• The bill allows carriers to apply deductibles, coinsurance, copayments or out of pocket limits to hearing aid devices, supplies, and services related to hearing aids but they may not be greater than any applied to other benefits covered in the health plan. However, if you have a high deductible that would effectively cancel out the benefit afforded by this law, so a provision was added by TAA that states added coverage required under this section is subject to any provision that applies generally to coverage provided for durable medical equipment benefits, including a provision relating to deductibles, coinsurance or prior authorization.

How frequently can a hearing aid be replaced under this act?

• “One hearing aid in each ear every three years”

How frequently can a cochlear implant be replaced under this act?

• “One cochlear implant in each ear with internal replacement as medically or audiologically necessary.”

Are batteries covered under this act?

• Yes, coverage under this act includes “related services and supplies for a covered individual who is 18 years of age or younger”.

Are ear molds covered under this act?

• Yes, “Coverage required under this section must include: fitting and dispensing services and the provision of ear molds as necessary to maintain optimal fit of hearing aids”.

Are CI external processors covered under this act?

• Yes, coverage under this act includes “related services and supplies for a covered individual who is 18 years of age or younger” and including “coverage for an external speech processor controller with necessary components replacement every three years”.

Is habilitation and or rehabilitation services covered under this act?

• Yes, coverage under this act “must include: any treatment related to hearing aids and cochlear implants, including coverage for habilitation and rehabilitation as necessary for educational gain”

What if the insurance policy is renewed outside of Texas, will this act still apply?

• Yes, this subchapter applies to a GHP that is “provided to a resident of this state, regardless of whether the group policy, agreement, or contract is delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed within or outside this state”.

Can hearing aids under this act be dispensed by a Hearing Instrument Fitter and Dispenser?

• Yes and No. Under the Hearing Instrument Fitters and Dispensers Occupations Code in Subchapter I. General Business Regulations, Sec. 402.402. Sale to a Minor state:
  • A licensed hearing instrument fitter and dispenser may not sell a hearing instrument to a person under 18 years of age unless the prospective user or a parent or guardian of the prospective user has presented to the hearing instrument fitter and dispenser a written statement, signed by a licensed physician specializing in diseases of the ear, that states that the patient’s hearing loss has been medically evaluated and that the patient may be considered a candidate for a hearing instrument.
  • The physician’s evaluation must have taken place within the preceding six months,
  • This is not different from the Audiologists Statute

• Audiologists and Parents must educate physicians on the importance of infants and children having hearing aids dispensed by audiologists. Audiologists have the appropriate pediatric audiology training in the assessment of hearing loss in infants and children. Audiologists also have the training in fitting of hearing aids with infants and children. It should also be noted that under the Hearing Instrument Fitters and Dispenser Occupations Code, Sec. 402.201 Contents of Examination does not include any subjects related to the assessment and dispensing and fitting of hearing aids to infants and children.

What insurance policies are exempted from this act?

• This subchapter does not apply to a plan that provides coverage for:

• (A) for wages or payments in lieu of wages for a period during which an employee is absent from work because of sickness or injury

(B) as a supplement to a liability insurance policy;

(C) for credit insurance;

(D) only for dental or vision care;

(E) only for hospital expenses; or

(F) only for indemnity for hospital confinement;

2)     a Medicare supplemental policy;

3)     a workers’ compensation insurance policy;

4)     medical payment insurance coverage provided under a motor vehicle insurance policy;

5)     a long-term care policy, including a nursing home fixed indemnity policy, unless the commissioner determines that the policy provides benefit coverage so comprehensive that the policy is a health benefit plan as described by Section 1367.251

6)     the state Medicaid program, including the Medicaid managed care program operated under Chapter 533, Government Code. 

What do I do if my Insurance company denies hearing aid coverage?

• Send a letter of complaint to the follow site! Repeated letters will prompt the Texas Department of Insurance

              http://www.tdi.texas.gov/consumer/complfrm.html

Lillie Hage Jamail Centennial Professor Emeritus in Communication Sciences and Disorders University of Texas at Austin

July 24, 1931–November 8, 2018

On November 8, audiology lost an internationally recognized instructor, researcher, and author, and I lost a close mentor and dear friend. During his 38-year tenure at the University of Texas at Austin, Fred Martin won the Teaching Excellence Award, the Graduate Teaching Award, and the Advisor’s Award, and had been recognized as the Professor of the Year in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Fred loved his students and they in-turn loved him. I know that I was not Fred’s only mentee, but I suspect I was his longest. As with many students over the years, Fred took me under his wing, coached me, and encouraged me. I owe much of who I am professionally to Fred’s great generosity and guidance. 

Fred’s first love was his family, but he often referred to the Introduction to Audiology text as his third baby. This book was honored as a finalist for the prestigious Hamilton Book Award of the University of Teas in 2006. Outside of the university, Fred was honored with the Career Award in Hearing from the American Academy of Audiology, the lifetime achievement Award from the Texas Academy of Audiology, Honors of the Arkansas Hearing Society, and Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Fred was a prolific author completing six solo authored editions of Introduction to Audiology and another seven co-authored editions.  In addition he authored seven books, co-authored another seven, edited thirteen, and co-edited three. He was a co-editor of Audiology: A Journal for Continuing Education for many years, served as a reviewer for the most prominent audiology journals, and contributed 24 chapters for edited texts, 122 journal articles, 104 convention or conference papers and 5 instructional CD-ROMs.

The College of Communication of The University of Texas at Austin established the Frederick N. Martin Endowed Scholarship in 2011. Funds from this scholarship are awarded annually to an outstanding graduate student at The University who plans to pursue a career in audiology. The scholarship is designed to continue in perpetuity.

Many years ago, Fred signed my copy of the first edition of his Introduction to Audiology, “To my friend, colleague and future co-author.” It is the friendship that I have cherished the most. He will be deeply missed.

John Greer Clark, PhD

Rest in Peace Dr. Martin.

Our father, Fred Martin, passed away on November 8, 2018, at 87.  David and Leslie Anne were with him during his final days and he was at peace and free of pain.  This is Fred’s note, written years in advance, though we are editing it slightly.  He requested that no formal funeral service be carried out, mostly because he did not want to cause any more sadness about this than necessary.  He did ask that we notify some of the people who were important to him.

Fred's first love was his family and his very special dogs that he adored, as everyone who knew him is aware.   He also loved audiology.  He was proud of his students and was always excited to hear news of their accomplishments.  He felt that his former students being smart and up-to-date on the latest scientific developments was critical but not as important as being kind to patients.

One of his former students sent him a card on his 73^rd birthday and attached the following, which Fred truly enjoyed.  His friends and students may recognize some of this.

Everything I needed to know… I learned from Dr. Martin

v   Take Vitamin C

v   Proofread

v   Write thank-you letters

v   Pets save lives

v   Keep away from Q-tips

v   All you’ve got is your good name & your knowledge

v   If you write “Welcome” on your back people will wipe their feet on you

v   Macs are smarter

v   Don’t take sleep for granted

v   A yogurt a day keeps the doctor away

v   Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny

v   Witty responses:  “I’m sorry you feel that way,” & “What would you like me to do about it?”

v   Marry your best friend

Fred preferred that you all not send gifts or flowers at his passing.  He would have much preferred that if you are moved to do something that you make a donation to your favorite charity.  His included the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s Hospital, the Scott Haug Foundation, or any of the dog rescue groups like the Austin Humane Society.  There is also a Frederick N. Martin Endowed Scholarship in Communication Sciences and Disorders at The University of Texas at Austin.

As a brief addendum, we would like to add our own thanks to all of you for the warmth and concern that you have provided Fred and all of us over the years.  The outpouring of love that we have witnessed over the past few months is testament to Fred’s love for and commitment to excellence in his work and in all his endeavors.  We are very proud of him!

All the Best,

David and Leslie-Anne Martin

[email protected], [email protected]

Click here to download a copy of this letter.

Click here to log in to the Member Area and access conference presentations.

Congratulations to our incoming TAA Board of Directors who will take office beginning January 1, 2018:

The Texas Academy of Audiology Board of Directors is pleased to announce that the following individuals have expressed formal interest in serving on the Board as Elected Members for terms beginning on January 1, 2018. 

Selection of Elected Members to the Board will take place through formal vote and approval by the Membership at the TAA Business Meeting held at the Annual Conference on Friday, October, 20. 

Click here for nominee statements and to learn more.

Position: President Elect:

Lacey Brooks, Au.D.

Adriana Miciak, Au.D.

VP of Education:

Jennifer Bobo, Au.D.

VP of Legislative issues:

Jennifer Muehleback, Au.D.

Haley Owen, Au.D.

VP of Public Relations

Tracy Board, Au.D.

Annie Cardella-McRae, Au.D.

Cassie Thomas, Au.D.

Did you know you can reach the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) through Facebook? 

Have questions or comments about state licensing?

Click here to reach the TDLR Facebook page, or send an e-mail to TDLR: [email protected]

You may also contact TDLR by phone at (800) 803-9202.

On March 21, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Charles Grassley (R-IA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced the Over the Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017. A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Joe Kennedy (D-MA). The Academy has been actively engaged on this legislation since the start of the 115th Congress and was able to see several key changes to this version based on the bill that was introduced at the end of the 114th Congress. While the legislation is not perfect, the Academy is pleased to see that the bill’s sponsors are so willing to work with key stakeholders to ensure that consumers are protected and the interests of audiologists are understood.

The Academy’s conversations have been based on its two statements released on OTC Devices and on accessibility and affordability for hearing care. The Academy will continue to work with Congress on this bill at it advances through the legislative process.

 Read the bill text.

Do you perform outpatient screens or diagnostic audiological evaluations for children from birth through age five years?  If so, the Department of State Health Services, Texas Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program needs your help. 

TEHDI must report audiological outcomes to the CDC and some HRSA funds are tied to successfully meeting the 1-3-6 EHDI goals. Texas Pediatric Audiologists are responsible for reporting screening and diagnostic outcomes to TEHDI for the infants and toddlers they serve. 

If you are already reporting these data through the TEHDI website, thank you!  If not, make the state of Texas shine by reporting. Contact us today at 888-727-3366 opt 3 to obtain a username & password for the TEHDI MIS website.

Notice to TAA Members regarding Changes to hearing aid purchase agreements and office signs

Beginning October 1, 2016, our licenses will be administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).  As a result of this change, there are several minor rule changes that have occurred. Two that will immediately affect us is the language required on a purchase agreement for hearing aids and the notification sign in our offices regarding complaints.

The following items must be contained on the hearing aid purchase agreement.  None of this is new; however, please ensure that all of this is printed on each agreement.  The one change is the name and address of the agency.  See 16 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111, §111.220

(c) - Joint Rule Regarding the Sale of Hearing Instruments.

(c) Upon the sale of any hearing instrument(s) or change of model or serial number of the hearing instrument(s), the owner shall ensure that each client receives a written contract that contains:

(1) the date of sale;

(2) the make, model, and serial number of the hearing instrument(s);

(3) the name, address, and telephone number of the principal place of business of the license holder who dispensed the hearing instrument;

(4) a statement that the hearing instrument is new, used, or reconditioned;

(5) the length of time and other terms of the guarantee and by whom the hearing instrument is guaranteed;

(6) a copy of the written forms (relating to waiver forms);

(7) a statement on or attached to the written contract for services, in no smaller than 10-point bold type, as follows: "The client has been advised that any examination or representation made by a licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology in connection with the fitting and selling of the hearing instrument(s) is not an examination, diagnosis or prescription by a person duly licensed and qualified as a physician or surgeon authorized to practice medicine in the State of Texas and, therefore, must not be regarded as medical opinion or advice.”;

(8) a statement on the face of the written contract for services, in no smaller than 10-point bold type, as follows: “If you have a complaint against a licensed audiologist or intern in audiology, you may contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, P.O. Box 12157, Austin, Texas 78711, Telephone (512) 463-6599, Toll-Free (in Texas): (800) 803-9202, www.tdlr.texas.gov”;

(9) the printed name, license type, signature and license number of the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology who dispensed the hearing instrument;

(10) the supervisor's name, license type, and license number, if applicable;

(11) a recommendation for a follow-up appointment within 30 days after the hearing instrument fitting;

(12) the expiration date of the 30 consecutive day trial period under subsection (b) of this section; and

(13) the dollar amount charged for the hearing instrument and the dollar amount charged for the return or restocking fee, if applicable.

Also, we are required to have a sign posted in our office advising patients of who to contact if they wish to file a complaint.  This is not a new requirement; however, the name and address of the agency is new. See Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111, §111.151

(a) A licensee shall notify each client of the name, mailing address, telephone number and website of the department for the purpose of directing complaints to the department.  A licensee shall display this notification:

(1)  on a sign prominently displayed in the primary place of business of each licensee; and

(2)  on a written document such as a written contract, a bill for service, or office information brochure provided by the licensee to a client or third party.

There is no specific wording required by the rule.  The following was reviewed by TDLR personnel.  They state that this meets the requirement and may be used.

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation 

Unless exempted by State law, a person who provides speech-language pathology

and/or audiology services to clients must be licensed by the

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

(16 TAC CHAPTER 111. SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS).

A consumer who wishes to file a complaint against an individual licensed by this agency may contact:

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

P.O. Box 12157

Austin, Texas 78711

(512) 463-6599

(800) 803-9202 Toll-Free (in Texas):

www.tdlr.texas.gov

TDLR has announced that they will begin issuing licenses and performing all regulatory duties associated with the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (SLPA) program on Monday, October 3, 2016. Below is a summary of the timeline leading up to the program launch date at TDLR:

Feb. 9:  Post Statement of Work to select vendors for contract to convert the transferring programs to TDLR-managed hardware and software (IT contract)
Feb. 22: Bids due to TDLR for IT contract
March 19: Contract award
April 3: Conversion Project Kick-off
Oct. 1: Effective date of TDLR administrative rules
Oct. 1-2:  SLPA program inactivated at DSHS / Go live at TDLR
Oct. 3:  First day of business for SLPA program at TDLR

Until October 3, 2016, all licensing, compliance, and enforcement responsibilities for the SLPA program will remain at DSHS. For assistance in these areas, please visit the DSHS Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology home page.

When does the transfer happen?
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) will assume all activities relating to the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists program—including licenses and renewals, customer service and enforcement—on October 3, 2016.

When the transfer happens, will I need to get a new license issued by TDLR?
No. The license you have now—issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)—remains valid until its expiration date. When you renew, you will receive a TDLR license.

Have the rules changed?
Yes, TDLR has adopted rules for all of the transferring health profession programs. Most of the newly adopted rules are very similar, but some changes have been made. The TDLR rules become effective on October 1, 2016. View the rule changes and links to the TDLR rules

What is going to happen with open complaints and cases?
If you filed a complaint with DSHS or had a complaint filed against your license and it is not resolved by the transfer date, TDLR will assume responsibility for the case at that time. You will receive notification by mail if your complaint is transferred to TDLR.

How do I stay informed about changes impacting me?
You have several options to stay connected:

• Email updates – Sign up for email updates to receive notices about rules, the law, fees, examination requirements, meetings and more. Email updates are the best way for you to stay informed.

• Meetings – TDLR’s advisory board and Commission meetings are available to watch online live or later at your convenience.

• Facebook and Twitter – TDLR has a Facebook page and Twitter account dedicated to TDLR Health Professions.

Notice to TAA Members regarding changes to hearing aid purchase agreements and office signs.

Beginning October 1, 2016, our licenses will be administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). As a result of this change, there are several minor rule changes that have occurred. Two that will immediately affect us is the language required on a purchase agreement for hearing aids and the notification sign in our offices regarding complaints.

The following items must be contained on the hearing aid purchase agreement. None of this is new; however, please ensure that all of this is printed on each agreement. The one change is the name and address of the agency. See 16 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111, §111.220 (c) - Joint Rule Regarding the Sale of Hearing Instruments.

(c) Upon the sale of any hearing instrument(s) or change of model or serial number of the hearing instrument(s), the owner shall ensure that each client receives a written contract that contains:

(1) the date of sale;

(2) the make, model, and serial number of the hearing instrument(s);

(3) the name, address, and telephone number of the principal place of business of the license holder who dispensed the hearing instrument;

(4) a statement that the hearing instrument is new, used, or reconditioned;

(5) the length of time and other terms of the guarantee and by whom the hearing instrument is guaranteed;

(6) a copy of the written forms (relating to waiver forms);

(7) a statement on or attached to the written contract for services, in no smaller than 10-point bold type, as follows: "The client has been advised that any examination or representation made by a licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology in connection with the fitting and selling of the hearing instrument(s) is not an examination, diagnosis or prescription by a person duly licensed and qualified as a physician or surgeon authorized to practice medicine in the State of Texas and, therefore, must not be regarded as medical opinion or advice.”;

(8) a statement on the face of the written contract for services, in no smaller than 10-point bold type, as follows: “If you have a complaint against a licensed audiologist or intern in audiology, you may contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, P.O. Box 12157, Austin, Texas 78711, Telephone (512) 463-6599, Toll-Free (in Texas): (800) 803-9202”;

(9) the printed name, license type, signature and license number of the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology who dispensed the hearing instrument;

(10) the supervisor's name, license type, and license number, if applicable;

(11) a recommendation for a follow-up appointment within 30 days after the hearing instrument fitting;

(13) the dollar amount charged for the hearing instrument and the dollar amount charged for the return or restocking fee, if applicable.

Also, we are required to have a sign posted in our office advising patients of who to contact if they wish to file a complaint. This is not a new requirement; however, the name and address of the agency is new. See Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111, §111.151

(a) A licensee shall notify each client of the name, mailing address, telephone number and website of the department for the purpose of directing complaints to the department.  

A licensee shall display this notification: 

(1) on a sign prominently displayed in the primary place of business of each licensee; and

(2) on a written document such as a written contract, a bill for service, or office information brochure provided by the licensee to a client or third party.

There is no specific wording required by the rule. The following was reviewed by TDLR personnel. They state that this meets the requirement and may be used.

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Unless exempted by State law, a person who provides speech-language pathology and/or audiology services to clients must be licensed by the
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
(16 TAC CHAPTER 111. SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS).

A consumer who wishes to file a complaint against an individual licensed by this agency may contact:

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
P.O. Box 12157
Austin, Texas 78711
(512) 463-6599
(800) 803-9202 Toll-Free (in Texas):
www.tdlr.texas.gov

*(b) Guidelines for a 30 consecutive day trial period.

(1) All clients shall be informed of a 30 consecutive day trial period by written contract for services. All charges associated with such trial period shall be included in this written contract for services, which shall include the name, address, and telephone number of the department.

(2) Any client purchasing one or more hearing instruments shall be entitled to a refund of the purchase price advanced by the client for the hearing instrument(s), less the agreed-upon amount associated with the trial period, upon return of the instrument(s), in good condition, to the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology within the trial period ending 30 consecutive days from the date of delivery. Should the order be canceled by the client prior to the delivery of the hearing instrument(s), the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology may retain the agreed-upon charges and fees as specified in the written contract for services. The client shall receive the refund due no later than the 30th day after the date on which the client cancels the order or returns the hearing instrument(s), in good condition, to the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology.

(3) Should the hearing instrument(s) have to be returned to the manufacturer for repair or remake during the trial period, the 30 consecutive day trial period begins anew. The trial period begins on the day the client reclaims the repaired/remade hearing instrument(s). The expiration date of the new 30 consecutive day trial period shall be made available to the client in writing, through an amendment to the original written contract. The amendment shall be signed by both the licensed audiologist or licensed intern in audiology and the client.

(4) On delivery of a new replacement hearing instrument(s) during the trial period, the serial number of the new instrument(s), the delivery date of the hearing instrument(s), and the date of the expiration of the 30 consecutive day trial period must be stated in writing.

(5) If the date of the expiration of the 30 consecutive day trial period falls on a holiday, weekend, or a day the business is not open, the expiration date shall be the first day the business reopens.

For more information, and to sign up to receive email updates from TDLR, click here.

You can download the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Administrative Rules document (306kb) as an Adobe PDF file suitable for printing. Acrobat Reader is necessary to view .pdf files. If you need to obtain a copy of this program it is available as a free download for Windows or Macintosh operating systems.

SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS
Administrative Rules
16 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111
(Effective October 1, 2016)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
111.1. Authority
111.2. Definitions

SUBCHAPTER B. SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS ADVISORY BOARD
111.10. Membership
111.11. Duties
111.12. Terms; Vacancies
111.13. Officers
111.14. Meetings

SUBCHAPTER C. EXAMINATIONS
111.20. License Examination--General Requirements
111.21. License Examination--Written Examination
111.22. Waiver of Written Examination Requirement
111.23. License Examination--Jurisprudence Examination

SUBCHAPTER D. REQUIREMENTS FOR SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY LICENSE
111.30. Speech-Language Pathology License--Licensing Requirements
111.35. Speech-Language Pathology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.36. Speech-Language Pathology License--Issuing License
111.37. Speech-Language Pathology License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER E. REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERN IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY LICENSE
111.40. Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License--Licensing and Internship Requirements
111.45. Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.46. Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License--Issuing License
111.47. Intern in Speech-Language Pathology License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER F. REQUIREMENTS FOR ASSISTANT IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY LICENSE
111.50. Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License--Licensing Requirements
111.55. Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.56. Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License--Issuing License
111.57. Assistant in Speech-Language Pathology License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER G. REQUIREMENTS FOR TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
111.60. Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology--Registration Requirements
111.65. Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology --Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.66. Temporary Certificate of Registration in Speech-Language Pathology--Issuing Registration

SUBCHAPTER H. REQUIREMENTS FOR AUDIOLOGY LICENSE
111.70. Audiology License--Licensing Requirements
111.75. Audiology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.76. Audiology License--Issuing License
111.77. Audiology License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER I. REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERN IN AUDIOLOGY LICENSE
111.80. Intern in Audiology License--Licensing and Internship Requirements
111.85. Intern in Audiology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.86. Intern in Audiology License--Issuing License
111.87. Intern in Audiology License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER J. REQUIREMENTS FOR ASSISTANT IN AUDIOLOGY LICENSE
111.90. Assistant in Audiology License--Licensing Requirements
111.95. Assistant in Audiology License--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.96. Assistant in Audiology License--Issuing License
111.97. Audiology Assistant License--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER K. REQUIREMENTS FOR AUDIOLOGY TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION
111.100. Temporary Certificate of Registration in Audiology--Registration Requirements
111.105. Audiology Temporary Certificate of Registration--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.106. Temporary Certificate of Registration in Audiology--Issuing Registration

SUBCHAPTER L. REQUIREMENTS FOR DUAL LICENSE IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY
111.110. Dual License in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology--Licensing Requirements
111.115. Dual License in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology--Application and Eligibility Requirements
111.116. Dual License in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology--Issuing License
111.117. Dual License in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology--License Terms; Renewals

SUBCHAPTER N. CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION
111.130. Continuing Professional Education--Requirements and Hours
111.131. Continuing Professional Education--Courses and Credits
111.132. Continuing Professional Education--Records and Audits

SUBCHAPTER O. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION AND THE DEPARTMENT
111.140. Rules

SUBCHAPTER P. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE AND CODE OF ETHICS
111.150. Changes of Name, Address or Other Information
111.151. Consumer Information and Display of License
111.152. Advertising
111.153. Recordkeeping and Billing
111.154. Requirements, Duties, and Responsibilities of Supervisors
111.155. Standards of Ethical Practice (Code of Ethics)

SUBCHAPTER Q. FEES
111.160. Fees

SUBCHAPTER R. COMPLAINTS
111.170. Telephone Number for Complaints
111.171. Complaints Regarding Standard of Care

SUBCHAPTER S. ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS
111.180. Administrative Penalties and Sanctions
111.181. Enforcement Authority
111.182. Refunds
111.183. Surrender of License

SUBCHAPTER T. SCREENING PROCEDURES
111.190. Communication Screening
111.191. Hearing Screening
111.192. Newborn Hearing Screening

SUBCHAPTER U. FITTING AND DISPENSING OF HEARING INSTRUMENTS
111.200. Registration of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology to Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments
111.201. General Practice Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Who Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments
111.202. Requirements of Audiologists and Interns in Audiology Conducting Audiometric Testing for the Purpose of Fitting and Dispensing Hearing Instruments

SUBCHAPTER V. TELEHEALTH
111.210. Definitions Relating to Telehealth
111.211. Service Delivery Models of Speech-Language Pathologists
111.212. Requirements for the Use of Telehealth by Speech-Language Pathologists
111.213. Limitations on the Use of Telecommunications Technology by Speech-Language Pathologists
111.214. Requirements for Providing Telehealth Services in Speech-Language Pathology
111.215. Requirements for Providing Telepractice Services in Audiology

SUBCHAPTER W. JOINT RULE REGARDING THE SALE OF HEARING INSTRUMENTS
111.220. Requirements Regarding the Sale of Hearing Instruments

SUBCHAPTER X. JOINT RULES FOR FITTING AND DISPENSING OF HEARING INSTRUMENTS BY TELEPRACTICE
111.230. Purpose
111.231. Definitions
111.232. Requirements for Providing Telehealth Services for the Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments

For further information click here to go to the TDLR site.

The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation adopted new rules regarding the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists program (16 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 111).

View the adoption justification

View the full adopted rules

The rules take effect October 1, 2016.