Health Occupations - Practice of Audiology - Definition

HB 1298 clarifies the definition of "practice audiology" in Maryland law to explicitly include ordering and performing nonradiographic scanning/imaging of the ear for auditory or vestibular conditions, along with related procedures like cerumen removal and specific bloodwork. The bill expands audiology practice to cover these diagnostic services while maintaining exclusions for surgical procedures (e.g., ear surgery, cochlear implant surgery) and radiographic imaging preparation. This directly affects licensed audiologists in Maryland who provide ear and balance care, allowing them to perform these specific diagnostic steps within their scope. The changes take effect July 1, 2025, and do not alter existing licensing or certification requirements.