  Over the
past six years, the profession of audiology has matured in its
political endeavors. ADA's advocacy has given the profession a voice
in governmental affairs and has generated a significant impact in
public policy. Progress can be demonstrated by the addition of
Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage of audiological services and
improved access to audiologic care for Medicare patients. CMS
(Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services - formerly HCFA) has
made a number of policy changes as a result of ADA's advocacy
efforts. Medicaid's definition of an Audiologist (effective June 28,
2004) is yet another example of ADA's advocacy efforts. [See the Medicaid
Timeline for the history leading to this significant
legislation.] Advancement of ADA's governmental agenda can be traced
to a number of factors that include the profession’s involvement in
political fundraising and political action.
Audiologists who desire to be autonomous need to invest in their
future. We can't sit on the sidelines thinking, “someone else will
carry the load.” The best way to advance our profession is to stay
current on legislative issues that impact our profession, contact
our legislators when action is needed and contribute to ADA’s Political
Action Committee, ADA-PAC. Staying
informed and involved is the only way we, as a profession, may
continue our progress as the managers of Hearing and Balance Health
Care. |
