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The hearing instrument fitters and dispensers field is undergoing some rapid and drastic changes. New technologies that affect the way instruments are designed and operate as well as the way fitters and dispensers perform their tasks, are being introduced into the market at an unprecedented rate. This, combined with changes in regulations governing the industry, creates new demands on the industry. Keeping current with the present and future trends is more challenging than ever before. Through RCW 18.35, the Washington State Legislature required the Board of Hearing and Speech to conduct a study to develop recommendations on the appropriateness of a two-year degree as an entry level requirement for licensing hearing instrument fitters and dispensers. The study is required to include consideration of the fiscal impact, the effect on access of the public to services, the feasibility of providing a two-year degree curriculum and the status of those currently licensed as hearing instrument fitter and dispensers.

A three-phase process was undertaken to develop the Skill Standards:

1) Identify critical work functions, key activities, and performance indicators and identify occupational technical knowledge and skills.
2) Identify and level academic and employability skills.
3) Validate the critical work functions and key activities.

Hearing Instrument Fitter and Dispenser Critical Work Functions: A) Perform Hearing Evaluations; B) Fit and Dispense Hearing Instruments; C) Perform Sales Activities; D) Repair Hearing Instruments; E) Perform Administrative Duties; F) Operate and Maintain Equipment.

Curriculum and Assessments were developed based on the Skill Standards. For additional information, contact Tom Hopkins, Spokane Falls Community College, 509-533-3429 tomh@sfcc.spokane.cc.wa.us or Diane Young, Washington State Department of Health/Hearing and Speech Program,
360-239-4917 tdy@was.gov.