IHS Licensing Board Conference 2024-Licensing Board Conference 2024 Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The 2024 Licensing Board Conference, led by Christine Seitz from IHS, focuses on hearing aid dispensing professionals and state licensure. It provides an opportunity for participants to seek solutions, share best practices, and navigate current professional challenges. Participants can engage in a tech check, with Zoom tools like closed captioning to enhance accessibility.<br /><br />Survey efforts aim to capture data regarding the scope of practice and licensing requirements across the U.S. and Canada. Feedback on these will inform the landscape of hearing aid specialist licensure. Christine introduces key IHS staff involved, including Sierra Sharp, who elaborates on professional development and ongoing exam processes. Updates on the International Licensing Examination (ILE) reveal its importance in maintaining a high standard for hearing aid specialists through regular psychometric analysis.<br /><br />Sharp discusses logistical changes, including updated score reporting for ILE and the practical exam's improved alignment with real-world skills. The practical exam's transparency and preparation focus are emphasized. Participants engaged in discussions about addressing employment gaps in the industry by potentially expanding licensure and apprenticeship programs. Cross-state practices in regards to reciprocity agreements, ethics in mixed boards, and regulatory adjustments were also shared. The need for improved candidate preparation, company recruitment efforts, and accommodation for test-takers underlined trends in professional development.<br /><br />Throughout the forum, participants shared experiences and strategies, addressing how their boards handle licensing, reciprocity, and keeping pace with industry changes, showcasing the collaborative effort to address issues and promote efficient pathways for new professionals in the hearing aid field.

Keywords

Licensing Board Conference

hearing aid dispensing

state licensure

professional challenges

Zoom accessibility

scope of practice

International Licensing Examination

psychometric analysis

reciprocity agreements

professional development

apprenticeship programs