Section 2-314.1 - Hearing aid dispensers and audiologists - Medical examination. - Maryland Statutes

§ 2-314.1. Hearing aid dispensers and audiologists - Medical examination.
 

(a)  "Medical examination" defined.- In this section, "medical examination" means a physical examination of the ear of an individual by an otolaryngologist, otologist, or other physician. 

(b)  Required.-  

(1) Before an audiologist or a hearing aid dispenser sells a hearing aid to an individual, the audiologist or hearing aid dispenser shall determine whether the individual has had a medical examination within the 6 months before the hearing aid service is to be provided. 

(2) Unless an audiologist or a hearing aid dispenser determines that an individual has had a medical examination within the period set under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the audiologist or hearing aid dispenser: 

(i) Shall give the individual a written recommendation that the individual obtain a medical examination; and 

(ii) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, may not sell a hearing aid to the individual until the individual provides to the audiologist or the hearing aid dispenser satisfactory written evidence that the individual has had a medical examination within the 6 months before the hearing aid is provided. 

(c)  Exceptions.-  

(1) An audiologist or a hearing aid dispenser may sell a hearing aid to an individual without complying with the requirements of subsection (b)(2)(ii) of this section only if the services are: 

(i) Limited to replacement of a hearing aid; or 

(ii) Provided to an individual who: 

1. Is at least 18 years old; and 

2. Before a hearing aid is provided, signs a written waiver of the medical examination that otherwise is required under subsection (b)(2)(ii) of this section. 

(2) Each audiologist or hearing aid dispenser shall keep a copy of each signed waiver. 
 

[1992, ch. 326, § 3; 1993, ch. 448; 2007, ch. 391.]