The bill amends the definition of "audiology" in Arkansas law to expand the scope of practice for audiologists. It includes new provisions that outline specific activities such as evaluating, diagnosing, managing, and treating auditory or vestibular conditions, as well as prescribing and fitting hearing aids and sound processors for osseointegrated devices and cochlear implants. Additionally, the bill specifies that audiology encompasses conducting health screenings, removing foreign bodies or cerumen from the external auditory canal, and ordering certain tests related to auditory or vestibular conditions, while clarifying that it does not include surgical procedures or the interpretation of certain medical tests.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new definition for "sound processor," describing it as a nonsurgical, external unit that connects to an internal osseointegrated device or cochlear implant. This legislative change aims to enhance the practice of audiology by clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of audiologists, thereby improving patient care related to hearing and balance disorders.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB118 V2 - 3-17-2025 12:20 PM: 17-100-103(2), 17-100-103
Old version SB118 Original - 1-27-2025 04:20 PM: 17-100-103(2), 17-100-103
SB 118: 17-100-103(2), 17-100-103
Act 517: 17-100-103(2), 17-100-103