H72 - Audiology Modifications

• Updates North Carolina's audiology statutes to reflect current professional practices, education standards, and developments in the field, including expanded scope of practice areas.

• Redefines audiologist as an independent hearing health care practitioner and expands the definition of audiology practice to include 19 specific service areas such as health screenings, cerumen removal, cochlear implant fitting, tinnitus treatment, vestibular testing, and telepractice.

• Adds new section G.S. 90-294A authorizing licensed audiologists to treat minors from birth through age 17, including participation in school-based hearing screening programs and development of individualized education plans.

• Clarifies that individuals licensed under Chapter 93D (hearing aid dealers) may continue fitting and selling hearing aids without becoming audiologists.

• Makes Section 1 of the act effective October 1, 2021, with remaining provisions effective upon enactment.