03/10/2026
HELP DR. SPOOR'S ADVOCACY WORK IN MARYLAND.
Did you know that Dr. Spoor does state and national advocacy work on behalf of audiology and patients?
You can help her. Maryland SB 917 is actively trying to reduce what audiologists can do related to health screenings. This not only affects patient care, but could also affect out-of-pocket costs to YOU- the patient, by not allowing audiologists to bill certain codes that require health screenings.
Help Dr. Spoor and her colleagues reach out to Maryland state Senators by emailing your Senators the following:
"March 10, 2026
Subject: Please Oppose SB 917 β This Will Increase My Healthcare Costs Reduce Care
Dear Senator,
I am a constituent in your district and a patient who depends on hearing cand balance are. I am writing to respectfully ask that you vote UNFAVORABLE on SB 917.
When I visit my audiologist, I trust that they are looking at my overall health and safety, not just my ears. Simple screenings for vision, dexterity, cognition, psychosocial, or other health concerns help make sure I am safe and that I am referred to appropriate healthcare providers if I fail the screenings. These screenings are being done by a trained doctor of audiology who understands my medical needs, especially while I am getting older. I trust them.
If SB 917 passes, audiologists will be restricted from conducting these important health screenings. That would make me feel unsafe. I would much rather have a licensed healthcare professional screen my health than try to figure it out myself at a retail store or searching the internet. How would I know if there are early signs of a medical issue occurring? That is the job of the providers I see and trust.
I am also concerned that this bill will increase my out-of-pocket costs by preventing audiologists from billing certain nationally recognized medical service codes that require screenings. I should not have to pay more or receive lower-quality care because of unnecessary restrictions imposed by SB 917. If that happens, I might not be able to continue to receive hearing healthcare and then what would I do?
Please protect patient safety and access to quality hearing healthcare by voting UNFAVORABLE on SB 917.
Thank you for your time and for representing our community.
Sincerely,
Name
City, Maryland"
Find your state Senator (not US Senators Van Hollen/Alsobrooks) here: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/members/district