This section defines key terms used in the chapter, including apprentice, hearing aid dispenser, hearing aid specialist, direct and indirect supervision, license, sale, and telepractice.
For purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the respective meanings ascribed by this section: (1) APPRENTICE. A person who has met the requirements of Section 34-14-7 and may engage in the practice of fitting and dealing in hearing instruments only under the direct supervision of a hearing aid dispenser or hearing aid specialist when designated by the sponsoring dispenser. (2) APPRENTICE PERMIT. A permit issued while the applicant is in training to become a licensed hearing aid specialist. (3) BOARD. The Board of Hearing Instrument Dealers. (4) DIRECT SUPERVISION. On site and close contact whereby a supervisor is able to respond quickly to the needs of the patient or client receiving care or the supervisee. (5) HEARING AID DISPENSER. Any trained person who has met all requirements of this chapter for licensure and who may engage in the practice of fitting and dealing in hearing instruments without the direct supervision of any person. (6) HEARING AID or HEARING INSTRUMENT. Any wearable instrument or device designed for or offered for the purpose of aiding or compensating for impaired human hearing. (7) HEARING AID SPECIALIST. A trained, licensed person who may engage in the practice of fitting and dealing in hearing instruments under the indirect supervision of a hearing aid dispenser. (8) INDIRECT SUPERVISION. Frequent and close contact whereby a supervisor is able to respond quickly to the needs of the patient or client receiving care or the supervisee. (9) LICENSE. A license issued by the board under this chapter to a hearing aid specialist or hearing aid dispenser. (10) PRACTICE OF FITTING AND DEALING IN HEARING INSTRUMENTS. The measurement of human hearing by means of an audiometer or by other means approved by the board solely for the purpose of making selections, adaptations, or sale of hearing instruments. The term also includes the making of impressions for earmolds. A licensee or permit holder, at the request of a physician or a member of related professions, may make audiograms for the professional’s use in consultation with the hard-of-hearing. (11) SELL or SALE. Any transfer of title or of the right to use by lease, bailment, or any other contract, excluding wholesale transactions with distributors or dealers. (12) TELEPRACTICE. The practice as provided by rule of the board pursuant to subdivision (10).