Bill > H276

This bill aims to provide increased access to hearing aids by amending existing laws in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. Allowing otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors) and nonprofit/charitable organizations, clinics, hospitals, or healthcare facilities to sell hearing aids dispensed by licensed audiologists or hearing instrument specialists, without the previous restriction on physicians selling hearing aids to their own patients. 2. Requiring audiologists and otolaryngologists who sell hearing aids to their own patients to disclose the fees for the previous services provided and the terms of the hearing aid sale, including a written estimate of the total purchase price. 3. Prohibiting the offering or giving of money or anything of value to physicians, otolaryngologists, or audiologists as an inducement to recommend the purchase of a hearing aid. 4. Allowing audiologists, physicians, and otolaryngologists to suggest specific makes and models of hearing aids. 5. Clarifying that the licensing requirements for hearing instrument specialists do not apply to those who only repair or manufacture hearing aids or accessories, or those who sell assisted listening devices but not hearing aids.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H276