Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2024N00985:clause:1_15:p1
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2024N00985
Segment Type: clause
Provision Reference: sch 1 cl 15 (pt 1/2)
Character Range: 31910–34786

15  Minimum Hearing Loss Threshold
 1.    The program requires clients being fitted with a hearing device to meet a minimum 3 Frequency Average Hearing Loss threshold of greater than or equal to 23.3dB (3FAHL greater than or equal to 23.3dB), measured at 0.5, 1 and 2 kHz. Each ear must be evaluated independently.
 2.    Before proceeding with a fitting, practitioners must consider the nature and configuration of the hearing loss, the degree of communication difficulties experienced, and the attitude, motivation and goals of the client.
 3.    If a qualified practitioner determines that a client would benefit from a device, the client may be exempt from the MHLT requirements if the client meets both MHLT exemption criteria under section 42 of the Hearing Services Program (Voucher) Instrument 2019. Both criteria must be met before a client can be fitted or refitted under the program and all other program assessment and fitting requirements apply.
 4.    Providers will be required to reimburse the Commonwealth, and if applicable the client, if a fitting does not comply with the subsection (1), (2) and (3).
     5.    Minimum hearing loss exemption criteria
        1.    The Client must demonstrate they have a positive attitude and are motivated to wear a hearing device through their response to the Wishes and Needs Tool (WANT).
        2.    The client must meet one of the following conditions:
            1.       Client has a High Frequency Average Hearing Loss, equal to or greater than 40dB (HFAHL ≥ 40dB), measured at 2, 3 and 4 kHz. Where there is an air-bone gap in the high frequencies, check headphone placement/collapsing canals before calculating HFAHL; or
            2.     Client has tinnitus, where both the hearing loss and the tinnitus can be addressed through the use of an approved hearing device. Tinnitus cannot be the sole reason to provide devices. Fitting may proceed where amplification can be shown to both address the mild hearing loss and reduce severe or constant tinnitus that significantly affects quality of life. Documented evidence must show that aiding the client has had successful outcomes for both their hearing loss and tinnitus relief. Tinnitus severity or stress tools should be used prior to the fitting and at the follow-up to evaluate the device fitting. Results must be kept on the client's file; or
            3.   Client has a visual impairment that cannot be corrected by treatment, which reduces the client's ability to see mouth movements. Clients with a mild hearing loss and vision loss may experience greater communication difficulties compared to clients with mild hearing loss and good vision, and may benefit from receiving a device. Documented evidence that amplification improves speech audibility must be kept on the client's file. Clients with more serious visual impairments should continue to