Academy Advocacy on Capitol Hill for Student Loan Reform and EHDI Support

Last week, Joanne Zurcher, MPP, and Academy member Melissa Heche, AuD, traveled to Capitol Hill to advocate for two important Academy priorities: protecting access to federal student loans for audiology students and supporting Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs.

During meetings with congressional offices, they discussed the growing challenges facing audiology students and emphasized the importance of preserving access to federal student loan programs. As changes to federal student loan policies continue to be debated, the Academy remains focused on ensuring future audiologists can pursue the education and clinical training necessary to enter the profession without facing unnecessary financial barriers.

Dr. Heche brought a unique perspective to these discussions as chair of the Academy’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and owner of a private audiology practice in New York City. Her experience as both a clinician and practice owner highlighted the direct connection between workforce challenges and patient access to care.

Joanne and Dr. Heche also advocated for continued support of EHDI programs, which play a critical role in identifying hearing loss early and connecting children and families with timely intervention and support services.

Their visit reflects the Academy’s continued commitment to ensuring audiology has a strong voice on Capitol Hill and that policymakers understand the impact these issues have on both the profession and the patient’s audiologists serve.