Academy Supports Louisiana Legislation to Update Audiology Scope of Practice

The Louisiana legislature is currently considering House Bill 925 (HB 925), introduced during the 2026 regular session. This legislation aims to update statutory definitions related to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology. HB 925 provides clarity around the services audiologists may provide in the diagnosis and evaluation of hearing and balance disorders. Specifically, the legislation would:

• remove the requirement for a physician referral before audiologists provide services for vestibular (balance) disorders.
• allow audiologists to order certain tests related to auditory and vestibular conditions, including cultures, blood work testing, and radiographic imaging.
• permit audiologists to perform in-office, non-radiographic testing of the external auditory canal when evaluating hearing and balance disorders.

By clarifying the services audiologists may provide and removing unnecessary barriers such as mandatory physician referrals for vestibular care, legislation like HB 925 can help improve patient access to timely hearing and balance evaluations.

The American Academy of Audiology has submitted a letter of support to the Louisiana House Health and Welfare Committee, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that state law accurately reflects the education, training, and clinical competencies of audiologists.