PA Center for Hearing & Balance

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the festivities! 🍂🦃

11/27/2025

The PA House Aging and Older Adults Services Committee held a public hearing on HB 1670, long overdue legislation to require insurance coverage for hearing aids for adults in Pennsylvania, on November 19. PAA VP of Government Affairs Jim Shafer, AuD, along with leaders of the PA Speech-Language-Hearing Association testified in support of the legislation, which is jointly sponsored by Reps. Liz Hanbidge (D-Montgomery) and Joe Hohenstein (D-Philadelphia), citing the many connected health issues related to hearing loss, and how this benefit would greatly enhance the lives of many Pennsylvanians. Their testimony sparked much thoughtful discussion among the committee members, as this was the first time the House has considered the legislation, despite it having been introduced in several previous sessions. As expected the insurance industry delivered resisting testimony, citing the increased costs to the companies, at a time when premiums are already rising astronomically, as the federal government revises ACA requirements. The industry arguments were countered both by the PAA and PSHA testimony, but by several members of the committee, including Rep. Tarik Khan (D-Philadelphia), who stated that hearing is a matter of personal dignity, and insurance companies continuing to deny this coverage is denying people dignity.

You can watch the video of the hearing here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oa5S3Jagr6o



The committee will now work to find compromise language that can result in a sufficient number of votes to pass the bill, and PAA will be at the table. It is imperative that members, and non-members, as well as patients and family members reach out to their state House members and tell their stories, and ask for swift passage of HB 1670. You can join this effort by clicking this link: https://www.votervoice.net/WannerAssoc/Campaigns/100076/Respond

If you want to contact your state Rep in person, you can find them here: https://www.palegis.us/find-my-legislator

11/22/2025

Mark your calendars!!

DHCC Winter Session 2026
Registration Opens December 5th , 2025!

Kids/Teen/Adult Classes - ASL 1-5, Convo, Sign & Play & More!!

Online & Virtual

Levels 1-5 , Convo & More
Email ASL@DHCC.ORG or call 484-206-7896

11/22/2025

Join Heidi Hill, AuD on December 5th, 12–1:30 PM EST for a CEU webinar on Optimal Hearing Aid Fittings with Auditory and Cognitive Processing in Mind.

SIGN UP BELOW!

As hearing aid technology advances, so must our clinical approach—especially for older adults facing both hearing loss and cognitive decline. This session explores how traditional fittings can unintentionally increase distortion and listening effort, and how evidence-based, cognitive-informed strategies can enhance outcomes.

All proceeds support the launch of Malawi’s first woman-owned, self-sustaining audiology clinic, led by one of the country’s pioneering audiologists, Yamikani Dumbo.

Let’s come together to advance best practice in audiology and help bring hearing care access to thousands in Malawi.

**The session will be recorded for those who cannot attend the live event.

You can read more about the webinar and register here: https://hearingthecall.networkforgood.com/events/93500-ceu-event-optimal-hearing-aid-fittings-with-auditory-and-cognitive-processing-in-mind-by-heidi-hill-aud

11/22/2025

Join the Optimal Hearing Aid Fittings with Auditory and Cognitive Processing in Mind — a focused CEU event led by Heidi Hill, AuD.

📅 December 5, 2025
⏰ 12:00–1:30 PM (EST)
🎧 Explore strategies that support both auditory and cognitive needs for better patient outcomes.

Learn more and register: https://hearingthecall.networkforgood.com/events/93500-ceu-event-optimal-hearing-aid-fittings-with-auditory-and-cognitive-processing-in-mind-by-heidi-hill-aud

11/20/2025

11/20/2025

Today we celebrate our wonderful team member, Shannon!

Happy Birthday Shannon! 🎊🎈🎉🎂

11/14/2025

11/14/2025

Don't miss out! ADA Webinar “In and Out of Network,” Presented by Kim Cavitt
Friday, November 14, 2025

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Registration link: https://virtualconference.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VPw6Z8C3Q1W6mfSlzdluhw #/registration

Abstract:
Navigating managed care participation is one of the most complex and consequential aspects of running a successful audiology practice. This comprehensive two-hour webinar, led by reimbursement expert Kim Cavitt, Au.D., will guide participants through the critical decision-making, operational, and strategic processes involved in determining whether to participate in managed care networks and how to thrive within or outside of them.

Dr. Cavitt will explore the advantages and disadvantages of managed care participation, helping attendees make informed business decisions aligned with their practice goals and patient needs. Participants will gain practical knowledge on how to effectively terminate managed care contracts and transition their practices accordingly. The program will also provide insights into creating and structuring multiple business entities to optimize operations and financial performance. Finally, attendees will learn how to operationalize efficient and compliant revenue cycle processes to support sustainable profitability, regardless of network status.

11/14/2025

Check out our upcoming Heart for Hearing purse auction!

Step into an evening filled with style, excitement, and a purpose. At Hearing the Call’s Purse Auction, every purse carries a story—and every bid writes a new chapter of hope. From stunning designer handbags to one-of-a-kind treasures, you’ll find the perfect piece to take home. Get ready for fabulous finds, fierce bidding, and unforgettable moments. Come for the fashion—leave with a heart for hearing.

Click the link below to sign up!

https://hearingthecall.networkforgood.com/events/91458-a-heart-for-hearing-fundraiser-fort-wayne-in

11/08/2025

We had a great time at this month’s game night!

Thank you to everyone that came out!

See you next month!

11/05/2025

This November, we’re grateful for the sounds that connect us—laughter at the table, soft voices, shared stories. Protect your hearing so you can savor every moment. If you’ve noticed changes, schedule a hearing check before the holidays.