AARP-HearUSA

AARP/HearUSA Audiology Referral Program

(Posted Feb. 25, 2009)

The California Department of Consumer Affairs has now provided a formal decision regarding the developing relationship between AARP and HearUSA that has been of concern to CAA audiologists. The following is a link to the actual memorandum from the DCA attorney who provided the decision.

(Posted Jan. 22, 2009)

When it was announced in 2008 that a hearing aid referral and discount program had been established between AARP and HearUSA, many California audiologists expressed their concerns to CAA about this arrangement, particularly its legality in terms of requiring providers to pay to be eligible to receive referrals. CAA was responsive to the concerns of the professionals we represent, and we have been communicating with the Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Board to address these issues.

The following response was provided by Annemarie Del Mugnaio, Interim Executive Officer, Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Board regarding the AARP/HearUSA Audiology Referral Program:

“The CAA sought guidance from the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board regarding the hearing aid discount program sponsored by AARP and HearUSA wherein a national directory of providers is established and disseminated to AARP members based on the provider (licensee) paying an annual fee and agreeing to offer discounted hearing tests to AARP members. The SLPAB elevated the issue to its legal counsel for an analysis of the referral arrangement to determine whether a licensees' involvement in such a program would violate professional practice laws. In the end, it is the opinion of the SLPAB legal counsel, that the program sponsored by AARP/HearUSA as arranged, is prohibited according to Business and Professions Code Section 650 as it constitutes a "kick-back" where the referral is based on financial compensation. The legal opinion as prepared for the SLPAB will be reviewed and discussed at the next Board meeting to be held February 13, 2009 in San Francisco, at which time the SLPAB has an opportunity to release the opinion to the public for inspection.”

Thank you to all of the audiologists who have voiced their concerns over this issue. CAA will continue to work together with SLPAB to keep our membership and all California audiologists informed of any updates.

Troy Cascia, Au.D.
President
California Academy of Audiology