DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AGENCIES Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure HEARING AID PROVIDER RULES AND REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 [Editor’s Notes follow the text of the rules at the end of this CCR Document.] _________________________________________________________________________ AUTHORITY Basis: These rules are promulgated and adopted by the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations pursuant to section 12-230-301(3), C.R.S.

Purpose These rules are adopted by the Director in order to clarify statutory requirements pursuant to Article 230 of Title 12.

1.1 Original Licensure The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the requirements for licensure pursuant to section 12-230-201, C.R.S.

A. To qualify for licensure as hearing aid provider a person must have: 1. Passed the National Competency Examination (NCE) offered by the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS); or 2. Passed the International Licensing Examination (ILE), developed by the International Hearing Society (IHS), or another appropriate entry-level examination approved by the Director; and a. Completed at least six months of training with an audiologist or licensed hearing aid provider, or b. Have an associate’s degree in hearing aid fitting and dispensing that, at the time the applicant was enrolled and graduated, was offered by an institution of higher education or a post-secondary education program accredited by a national, regional, or state agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or a program approved by the Director.

3. Applicants shall demonstrate financial assurance in accordance with section 12-230-206, C.R.S., through one of the following:

a. Applicant shall post a surety bond in the amount of ten thousand dollars; or, b. Applicant shall maintain a one million-dollar liability insurance policy; or c. Applicant shall demonstrate substantially equivalent alternative means of financial assurance as approved by the Director 1 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 1.2 Licensure by Endorsement The purpose of this Rule is to clarify licensure by endorsement requirements pursuant to section 12-20- 202(3), C.R.S.

A. To qualify for licensure by endorsement an applicant must: 1. Possess an active license in good standing to practice as a hearing aid provider in another state or United States territory; and 2. Present satisfactory proof to the Director that the active license in good standing issued required experience and credentials substantially equivalent to the qualifications for original licensure in Colorado.

B. Substantially equivalent experience and credentials may be determined by the Director and may include the following:

1. Earned a degree with a concentration in hearing aid fitting and dispensing, or completed supervised training to do so, and 2. Passed an acceptable entry-level examination or is certified in hearing aid fitting and dispensing through an accredited national certifying agency such as the National Board for Certification of Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS). C. The Director may consider substituting two years of active practice in good standing as a hearing aid provider within the last five years prior to the date of application in place of either sections (B)(1) or (2) above.

D. Military service shall be credited towards the requirements of active practice of sections (C) of this Rule, if the military experience generally conforms to the scope of practice of hearing aid providers in Colorado as specified in section 12-230-104, C.R.S. 1.3 Hearing Aid Provider Trainees, Apprentices, and Associates The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the transition of trainee, apprentice, and associate license types; establish the time period during which an apprentice license shall be valid, and to specify the components of the training required to be completed by apprentices pursuant to section 12-230-204, C.R.S. A. Unlicensed Trainees and Employees 1. As of July 1, 2013, no new trainee licenses will be issued. Trainee licenses that were issued prior to that date expired on June 30, 2013.

2. An unlicensed person in this state training to be a licensed hearing aid provider after June 30, 2013, and prior to June 1, 2014, may do so under the direct, line-of-sight supervision of a licensed hearing aid provider. However, such person is not permitted to sell hearing aids independently of the supervising hearing aid provider, and cannot conduct hearing tests or perform the initial fitting of hearing aids. 3. A licensed hearing aid provider may hire and employ unlicensed staff to assist with conducting business practices and to assist in dispensing hearing aids if the unlicensed staff is properly supervised by the licensed hearing aid provider, except that the unlicensed employee(s) may not perform any of the acts listed in section (B)(2) of this Rule, except for subsection (j).

2 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure B. Licensed Apprentices 1. On or after June 1, 2014, a person in this state training to be a licensed hearing aid provider must possess a valid apprentice license issued by the Director. Any work prior to the issuance of an apprentice license will not apply as training hours towards the apprentice license status.

a. The supervising hearing aid provider retains ultimate responsibility for the care provided by the apprentice and is subject to disciplinary action by the Director for failure to provide adequate supervision.

b. An apprentice is not permitted to sell hearing aids independently of the supervising licensed hearing aid provider.

2. In order to be eligible for an apprentice license to be issued by the Director, an applicant must submit verification of training to become a licensed hearing aid provider, which training shall meet the requirements of Paragraph 3 below, and will be provided under the direct supervision of an identified licensed hearing aid provider whose license is active and in good standing.

3. Once licensed to begin training, an apprentice is required to complete at least the first six months of training under direct supervision, including a minimum of 300 documented hours of on-site supervised training in the following areas: a. Taking a case history and review;

b. Otoscopy;

c. Testing of hearing including air conduction and bone conduction with proper masking when needed;

d. Testing of speech including speech recognition threshold (SRT), most comfortable loudness level (MCL), uncomfortable loudness level (UCL), and discrimination with proper masking when needed;

e. Interpreting hearing tests and the making of medical referrals as necessary; f. Taking of ear impressions suitable for hearing aids and ear molds; g. Fitting and post-fitting adjustments;

h. Checking for proper fit and making needed adjustments; i. Verifying the hearing aid performance to determine if the hearing aid is correcting and conforming to the hearing loss as expected. This may include, but is not limited to, the user of real ear measurement, word discrimination, aided versus unaided, or other forms of aided measurements as may be standard in the industry; and j. Counseling, including the delivery of the hearing aid, insertion and removal of the hearing aid, instruction on changing the batteries, and education to the user and family as to the expectations and performance.

3 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 4. Once an apprentice has successfully completed his/her 300 documented hours of initial supervised training, then he/she may perform any of the activities in paragraph 3 above under the direct supervision of a licensed hearing aid provider. However, all hearing aid sales must be reviewed by the supervising licensed hearing aid provider and all contracts need to be signed by the supervising licensed hearing aid provider. 5. An apprentice is eligible to become a licensed hearing aid provider upon successful completion of at least six months of training under direct supervision, including a minimum of 300 documented hours of on-site supervised training, and passage of the International Licensing Examination (ILE), developed by the International Hearing Society (IHS), or another appropriate entry-level examination approved by the Director. C. Licensed Associates As of July 1, 2013, no new associate licenses will be issued. Associate licenses that are issued prior to that date are valid pursuant to section 12-5.5-204(6), C.R.S., [repealed] until the expiration date on the license. An associate license cannot be renewed, and once it expires, it cannot be reinstated.

1.4 Requirements for Reinstatement or Reactivation The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the requirements for reinstatement of a hearing aid provider license that has expired pursuant to section 12-20-202(1)(a), C.R.S., or reactivation of an inactive hearing aid provider license pursuant to section 12-20-203, C.R.S.

A. An applicant for reinstatement or reactivation of an expired or inactive license shall complete a reinstatement or reactivation application, and pay a fee. B. An applicant to reinstate or reactivate a license shall attest to the completion of at least eight hours of continuing education, as set forth in section 12-230-207, C.R.S., for each year the license has been expired or inactive.

C. If the license has been expired or inactive for more than two years from the date of receipt of the reinstatement or reactivation application, a licensee applying for reinstatement or reactivation of an expired or inactive license shall establish “competency to practice” under sections 12-20- 202(2)(c)(II)(A) and (D), and 12-20-105, C.R.S., as follows: 1. Verification of licensure in good standing from another state along with verification of active practice in that state for two years of the previous five years from the date of application for reinstatement or reactivation;

2. Completion of thirty hours of continuing education courses related to the practice of hearing aid providers during the two years immediately preceding the application for reinstatement or reactivation. The continuing education must meet the approval of the Director;

3. Supervised practice for a period of no less than six months subject to the terms established by the Director;

4. Retaking and achieving a passing score on the NCE offered by NBC-HIS within two years immediately preceding submission of an application for reinstatement or reactivation;

5. Maintained active Board certification with NBC-HIS; or 4 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 6. By any other means approved by the Director.

D. An applicant who is expired or inactive for more than five years must meet the requirements of Rule 1.1.

1.5 Customer Records The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the requirements for maintaining customer records pursuant to section 12-230-205, C.R.S., by a licensed hearing aid provider (licensee). A. Each licensee who sells a hearing aid or provides goods or services to a customer shall develop a written plan to ensure the maintenance of customer records pursuant to section 12-230-205, C.R.S., and must address at least the following:

1. The storage and proper disposal of customer records; 2. The disposition of customer records in the event the licensee dies, retires, or otherwise ceases to practice or provide hearing aid provider services to customers; and 3. The method by which customers may access or obtain their records promptly if any of the events described in paragraph (2) above of this Rule occurs. B. The licensee or licensee’s supervisor or licensee designated by licensee’s employer shall maintain all customer records for at least seven years. These records shall identify customer’s name, the goods and services provided to each customer (excluding minor parts, accessories, and batteries), and the date and price of each transaction. 1.6 Written Disclosures to Purchasers The purpose of this rule is clarify the type of written disclosures to be provided to purchasers of hearing aids pursuant to sections 12-230-301(3), 12-230-502, and 6-1-701(1)(c)(I)(A), C.R.S. that will protect such purchasers and that are necessary for the enforcement and administration of Article 230 of Title 12. A. Licensees shall identify themselves by listing their name, license type (i.e., hearing aid provider), license number, business address and telephone number on every contract or purchase agreement for the sale of a hearing aid.

1. It must be disclosed that B. Licensees shall include provisions on all contracts and purchase agreements stating the following:

1. Hearing aid providers and apprentices are regulated by the Division of Professions and Occupations.

2. An apprentice is not permitted to sell hearing aids independently of the supervising licensed hearing aid provider.

3. Any complaints can be filed against the licensee with the Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure within the Division of Professions and Occupations. 4. The Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure’s website, address, and telephone number. 5. The Licensee will provide proof of surety bond or liability insurance the consumer upon request.

5 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 6. Notice of thirty-day rescission period in accordance with section 12-230-502(1)(e), C.R.S. C. If any part of the purchase price of a hearing aid, including any fees for services, is to be non- refundable, the following disclosures of all non-refundable charges are required on the contract or purchase agreement and must be clearly stated as non-refundable: 1. A separate line item clearly stated as non-refundable, the total cost of all non-refundable charges related to the purchase of the hearing aids that are not included in the purchase price of the hearing aids such as: fitting and consultation fees, rehabilitation services, and/or non-refundable parts, attachments, or accessories that are disposable, one-time use, or similar products of low cost, e.g. batteries and cords. 2. A provision that clearly identifies all professional services including, but not limited to, those listed in paragraph 1 above, and the exact charge for each service. 1.7 Reporting Convictions and Other Adverse Actions The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the procedures for reporting convictions and other adverse actions to include judgments and administrative proceedings pursuant to section 12-230-401(1)(o), C.R.S. A licensee, as defined in section 12-230-102(4), C.R.S. including those licensed pursuant to section 12- 230-204, shall inform the Office Hearing Aid Provider Licensure, in a manner set forth by the Director, within thirty days of any adverse action. For purposes of this rule, “adverse action” includes the following: A. Conviction or acceptance of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or receipt of a deferred sentence in any court to a felony, or a crime involving fraud, deception, false pretense, theft, misrepresentation, false advertising, or dishonest dealing. B. The notice to the Director shall include the following information: 1. If the event is an action by a governmental agency (as described above): the name of the agency, its jurisdiction, the case name, the docket, proceeding or case number by which the event is designated, and a copy of the consent decree, order, or decision; 2. If the event is a felony conviction or a conviction of a crime involving fraud, deception, false pretense, theft, misrepresentation, false advertising, or dishonest dealing: the court, its jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the indictment or charges, and any plea or verdict entered by the court. The licensee shall also provide to the Director a copy of the imposition of sentence related to the felony conviction and the completion of all terms of the sentence within 90 days of such action; and 3. If the event concerns a civil action or arbitration proceeding: the court or arbiter, the jurisdiction, the case name, the case number, a description of the matter or a copy of the complaint, and a copy of the verdict, the court or arbitration decision, or, if settled, the settlement agreement and court’s order of dismissal.

C. The licensee may submit a written statement with any notice under this Rule to be included in the licensee records.

D. This Rule shall apply to any adverse action as described in section (A) of this Rule that occurs on or after the effective date of this Rule.

6 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 1.8 Duty to Report Information The purpose of this Rule is to clarify the requirement of licensees to notify the Director of a change in submitted information pursuant to section 12-230-301(3), C.R.S. A. The licensee shall inform the Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure in a clear, explicit and unambiguous written statement of any name, address, telephone, or email change within thirty days of the change. The Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure will not change a licensee’s information without explicit written notification from the licensee. Notification by any manner approved by the Division is acceptable.

1. The Division of Professions and Occupations maintains one contact address for each licensee, regardless of the number of licenses the licensee may hold. 2. Address change requests for some, but not all communications, or for confidential communications only, are not accepted.

B. The Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure requires one of the following forms of documentation to change a licensee’s name or correct a social security number or individual taxpayer identification number:

1. Marriage license;

2. Divorce decree;

3. Court order;

4. Documentation from the Internal Revenue Service verifying the licensee’s valid individual taxpayer identification number; or 5. Driver’s license or social security card with a second form of identification may be acceptable at the discretion of the Division.

1.9 Declaratory Orders The purpose of this Rule is to clarify procedures for the handling of requests for declaratory orders filed pursuant to the Colorado Administrative Procedures Act at section 24-4-105(11), C.R.S. A. Any person or entity may petition the Director for a declaratory order to terminate controversies or remove uncertainties as to the applicability of any statutory provision or of any rule or order of the Director.

B. The Director will determine, at her or his discretion and without notice to petitioner, whether to rule upon any such petition. If the Director determines that she or he will not rule upon such a petition, the Director shall promptly notify the petitioner of her or his action and state the reasons for such decision.

C. In determining whether to rule upon a petition filed pursuant to this rule, the Director will consider the following matters, among others:

1. Whether a ruling on the petition will terminate a controversy or remove uncertainties as to the applicability to petitioner of any statutory provisions or rule or order of the Director. 7 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 2. Whether the petition involves any subject, question or issue that is the subject of a formal or informal matter or investigation currently pending before the Director or a court involving one or more petitioners.

3. Whether the petition involves any subject, question or issue that is the subject of a formal or informal matter or investigation currently pending before the Director or a court but not involving any petitioner.

4. Whether the petition seeks a ruling on a moot or hypothetical question or will result in an advisory ruling or opinion.

5. Whether the petitioner has some other adequate legal remedy, other than an action for declaratory relief pursuant to CRCP 57, which will terminate the controversy or remove any uncertainty as to the applicability to the petitioner of the statute, rule or order in question.

D. Any petition filed pursuant to this Rule shall set forth the following: 1. The name and address of the petitioner and whether the petitioner is licensed pursuant to Title 12, Article 230.

2. The statute, rule or order to which the petition relates. 3. A concise statement of all of the facts necessary to show the nature of the controversy or uncertainty and the manner in which the statute, rule, or order in question applies or potentially applies to the petitioner.

E. If the Director determines that she or he will rule on the petition, the following procedures shall apply:

1. The Director may rule upon the petition based solely upon the facts presented in the petition. In such a case:

a. Any ruling of the Director will apply only to the extent of the facts presented in the petition and any amendment to the petition.

b. The Director may order the petitioner to file a written brief, memorandum or statement of position.

c. The Director may set the petition, upon due notice to petitioner, for a non- evidentiary hearing.

d. The Director may dispose of the petition on the sole basis of the matters set forth in the petition.

e. The Director may request the petitioner to submit additional facts in writing. In such event, such additional facts will be considered as an amendment to the petition.

f. The Director may take administrative notice of facts pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act at section 24-4-105(8), C.R.S., and may utilize her or his experience, technical competence, and specialized knowledge in the disposition of the petition.

8 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 2. If the Director rules upon the petition without a hearing, she or he shall promptly notify the petitioner of her decision.

3. The Director may, at her or his discretion, set the petition for hearing, upon due notice to petitioner, for the purpose of obtaining additional facts or information or to determine the truth of any facts set forth in the petition or to hear oral argument on the petition. The notice to the petitioner shall set forth, to the extent known, the factual or other matters into which the Director intends to inquire. For the purpose of such a hearing, to the extent necessary, the petitioner shall have the burden of proving all the facts stated in the petition; all of the facts necessary to show the nature of the controversy or uncertainty; and the manner in which the statute, rule, or order in question applies or potentially applies to the petitioner and any other facts the petitioner desires the Director to consider. F. The parties to any proceeding pursuant to this rule shall be the Director and the petitioner. Any other person may seek leave of the Director to intervene in such a proceeding, and leave to intervene will be granted at the sole discretion of the Director. A petition to intervene shall set forth the same matters as are required by section (D) of this Rule. Any reference to a “petitioner” in this Rule also refers to any person who has been granted leave to intervene by the Director. G. Any declaratory order or other order disposing of a petition pursuant to this rule shall constitute an agency action subject to judicial review pursuant to the Colorado Administrative Procedures Act at section 24-4-106, C.R.S.

1.10 Credit for Military Education, Training, or Experience and Pathways to Licensure for Veterans and Members of the Military The purpose of this Rule is to provide pathways to licensure for individuals with training, education, or experience gained during military service pursuant to sections 12-20-202(4) and 24-4-201 et seq., C.R.S. A. An applicant for licensure may submit information about the applicant’s education, training, or experience acquired during military service. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide timely and complete information for the Director’s review.

B. In order to meet the requirements for licensure, such education, training, or experience must be substantially equivalent to the required qualifications that are otherwise applicable at the time the application is received by the Director.

C. The Director will determine, on a case-by-case basis, whether the applicant’s military education, training, or experience meet the requirements for licensure. D. Documentation of military experience, education, or training may include, but is not limited to, the applicant’s Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214), Verification of Military Experience and Training (DD-2586), military transcript, training records, evaluation reports, or letters from commanding officers describing the applicant’s practice. E. For applicants submitting military education, training, or experience when applying for original licensure under Rule 1.1(A)(2), but who do not have the degree specified in Rule 1.1(A)(2)(b): 1. Applicants must pass the examination specified in Rule 1.1(A)(2). 2. If the Director determines that the submitted military education, training, or experience only partially satisfies the training requirement specified in Rule 1.1(A)(2)(a), the Director will advise applicants on the amount of additional training, education, or experience that will be required to qualify for licensure.

9 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 1.11 Concerning Health Care Provider Disclosures to Consumers about the Potential Effects of Receiving Emergency or Nonemergency Services from an Out-of-Network Provider This Rule is promulgated and adopted by the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations (“Director”), pursuant to the rulemaking authority in sections 12-20-204, 12-230-301(3), 24-34-113(3), C.R.S., in consultation with the Commissioner of Insurance and the State Board of Health under the authority of section 24-34-113(2), C.R.S.

The purpose of this Rule is to establish requirements for health care providers to provide disclosures to consumers about the potential effects of receiving emergency or non-emergency services from an out-of- network provider as required by section 24-34-113(2), C.R.S. This Rule applies to health care providers as defined in sections 24-34-113(1)(f) and 10-16-102(56), C.R.S.

A. Disclosure requirements. If a consumer has incurred a claim for emergency or nonemergency health care services from an out-of-network provider, the health care provider shall provide the disclosures contained in Appendix. The health care provider shall provide the disclosure contained in Appendix A at all of the following occasions: 1. After performing an appropriate screening examination and after determining that a client does not have an emergency medical condition or after treatment has been provided to stabilize an emergency medical condition. The disclosure shall be signed by the client or their designated representative;

2. At the time the client consents to care or treatment by the health care provider for nonemergency services. The disclosure shall be signed by the client or their designated representative before the start of services;

3. On billing statements and billing notices issued by the health care provider; and 4. On other forms or communications related to the services being provided pursuant to insurance coverage.

B. Noncompliance with this Rule may result in the imposition of any of discipline made available by section 12-230-401(1)(b), C.R.S.

1.12 REQUIRED DISCLOSURE TO PATIENTS – CONVICTION OF OR DISCIPLINE BASED ON SEXUAL MISCONDUCT A. On or after March 1, 2021, a licensee, shall disclose to a patient, as defined in section 12-30- 115(1)(a), C.R.S., instances of sexual misconduct , including a conviction or guilty plea as set forth in section 12-30-115 (2)(a) C.R.S., or final agency action resulting in probation or limitation of the licensee’s ability to practice as set forth is section 12-30-115(2)(b), C.R.S. B. Form of Disclosure: The written disclosure shall include all information specified in section 12-30- 115(3), C.R.S., and consistent with the sample model disclosure form as set forth in Appendix B to these rules. The patient must, through his or her signature on the disclosure form, acknowledge the receipt of the disclosure and agree to treatment with the registrant C. Timing of Disclosure: This disclosure shall be provided to a patient the same day the patient schedules a professional services appointment with the licensee. If an appointment is scheduled the same day that services will be provided or if an appointment is not necessary, the disclosure must be provided in advance of the treatment.

10 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 1. The written disclosure and agreement to treatment must be completed prior to each treatment appointment with a patient unless the treatment will occur in a series over multiple appointments or a patient/patient schedules follow-up treatment appointments. 2. For treatment series or follow-up treatment appointments, one disclosure prior to the first appointment is sufficient, unless the information the licensee is required to disclose pursuant to Section 12-30-115, C.R.S., has changed since the most recent disclosure, in which case an updated disclosure must be provided to a patient and signed before treatment may continue.

D. As set forth in section 12-30-115(3)(e), C.R.S., the requirement to disclose the conviction, guilty plea, or agency action ends when the licensee has satisfied the requirements of the probation or other limitation and is no longer on probation or otherwise subject to a limitation on the ability to practice the licensee’s profession.

E. A provider need not make the disclosure required by this section before providing professional services to the patient if any of the following applies as set forth in section 12-30-115(4), C.R.S.: 1. The patient is unconscious or otherwise unable to comprehend the disclosure and sign an acknowledgment of receipt of the disclosure pursuant to section 12-30-115(3)(d), C.R.S., and a guardian of the patient is unavailable to comprehend the disclosure and sign the acknowledgement;

2. The visit occurs in an emergency room or freestanding emergency department or the visit is unscheduled, including consultations in inpatient facilities; or 3. The provider who will be treating the patient during the visit is not known to the patient until immediately prior to the start of the visit.

F. A provider who does not have a direct treatment relationship or have direct contact with the patient is not required to make the disclosure required by this section. 1.13 Protections for Provision of Reproductive Health Care in Colorado This Rule is promulgated pursuant to Executive Order D 2022 032, and sections 25-6-401 et seq., 12- 230-301(3), and 12-20-204, C.R.S.

A. Definitions, for purposes of this Rule, are as follows: 1. “Applicant” means as defined in section 12-20-102(2), C.R.S. 2. “Assisting in the provision reproductive health care” means aiding, abetting or complicity in the provision of reproductive health care.

3. “Civil judgment” means a final court decision and order resulting from a civil lawsuit. 4. “Criminal judgment” means a guilty verdict, a plea of guilty, a plea of nolo contendere, or a deferred judgment or sentence.

5. “Licensee” means as defined in section 12-20-102(10), C.R.S. 11 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 6. “Provision of reproductive health care,” includes but is not limited to, transportation for reproductive health care, referrals for reproductive health care and related services, funding or assisting with payment of reproductive health care, prescribing, shipping or dispensing medications for reproductive health care in accordance with state and federal law, all options and mental health counseling and treatment related to reproductive health care. The “provision of reproductive health care” also includes all treatment contemplated in the definition of section 25-6-402(4), C.R.S.

7. “Regulator” means as defined in section 12-20-102(14), C.R.S. 8. “Reproductive health care” means as defined in section 25-6-402(4), C.R.S. B. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on the applicant or licensee’s provision of or assistance in the provision of reproductive health care in this state or any other state or U.S. territory, so long as the care provided was consistent with generally accepted standards of practice as defined in Colorado law and did not otherwise violate Colorado law. C. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on a civil or criminal judgment against the applicant or licensee arising from the provision of, or assistance in the provision of reproductive health care in this state or any other state or U.S. territory, so long as the care provided was consistent with generally accepted standards of practice and did not otherwise violate Colorado law. D. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on a professional disciplinary action or any other sanction against the applicant’s or licensee’s professional licensure in this, or any other state or U.S. territory so long as the professional disciplinary action is based solely on the applicant or licensee’s provision of, or assistance in the provision of, reproductive health care and the care provided was consistent with generally accepted standards of practice and did not otherwise violate Colorado law.

E. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s registration, certificate or license based solely on the licensee’s own personal effort to seek or obtain reproductive health care for themselves. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on a civil or criminal judgment against the applicant or licensee arising from the individual’s own personal receipt of reproductive health care in this state or any other state or U.S. territory. 1.14 Protecting Colorado’s Workforce and Expanding Licensing Opportunities This Rule is promulgated pursuant to Executive Order D 2022 034, and sections 12-230-301(3) and 12- 20-204, C.R.S.

A. Definitions, for purposes of this Rule, are as follows: 1. “Applicant” means as defined in section 12-20-102(2), C.R.S. 2. “Civil judgment” means a final court decision and order resulting from a civil lawsuit. 3. “Criminal judgment” means a guilty verdict, a plea of guilty, a plea of nolo contendere, or a deferred judgment or sentence.

4. “Licensee” means as defined in section 12-20-102(10), C.R.S. 12 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure 5. “Regulator” means as defined in section 12-20-102(14), C.R.S. B. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on a civil or criminal judgment against the applicant or licensee regarding the consumption, possession, cultivation, or processing of marijuana so long as the actions are lawful and consistent with professional conduct and standards of care within Colorado and did not otherwise violate Colorado law.

C. The regulator shall not deny licensure to an applicant or impose disciplinary action against an individual’s license based solely on a professional disciplinary action against the applicant’s or licensee’s professional licensure in this, or any other state or US territory so long as the professional disciplinary action is based solely on the applicant’s or licensee’s consumption, possession, cultivation, or processing of marijuana and did not otherwise violate Colorado law. 13 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure APPENDIX A Surprise Billing – Know Your Rights Beginning January 1, 2020, Colorado state law protects you from “surprise billing,” also known as balance billing.

What is surprise/balance billing, and when does it happen? You are responsible for the cost-sharing amounts required by your health plan, including copayments, deductibles, and/or coinsurance. If you are seen by a provider or use services in a facility or agency that are not in your health plan’s network, you may have to pay additional costs associated with that care. These providers or services at facilities or agencies are sometimes referred to as “out-of-network.” Out-of-network facilities or agencies often bill you the difference between what your insurer decides is the eligible charge and what the out-of-network provider bills as the total charge. This is called “surprise” or “balance” billing.

When you CANNOT be balance-billed:

Emergency Services Not every service provided in an emergency department is an emergency service. If you are receiving emergency services, in most circumstances, the most you can be billed for is your plan’s in-network cost- sharing amounts. You cannot be balance-billed for any other amount. This includes both the emergency facility and any providers that see you for emergency care. Nonemergency Services at an In-Network or Out-of-Network Health Care Provider The health care provider must tell you if you are at an out-of-network location or at an in-network location that is using out-of-network providers. They must also tell you what types of services may be provided by any out-of-network provider.

You have the right to request that in-network providers perform all covered medical services. However, you may have to receive medical services from an out-of-network provider if an in-network provider is not available. In this case, the most you can be billed for covered services is your in-network cost-sharing amount (copayments, deductibles, and/or coinsurance). These providers cannot balance bill you. Additional Protections • Your insurer will pay out-of-network providers and facilities directly. Again, you are only responsible for paying your in-network cost-sharing for covered services. • Your insurer must count any amount you pay for emergency services or certain out-of-network services (described above) toward your in-network deductible and out-of-pocket limit. • Your provider or facility must refund any amount you overpay within sixty days of being notified. • A provider, hospital, or outpatient surgical facility cannot ask you to limit or give up these rights. If you receive services from an out-of-network provider or facility or agency OTHER situation, you may still be balance billed, or you may be responsible for the entire bill. If you intentionally receive non-emergency services from an out-of-network provider or facility, you may also be balance billed.

If you want to file a complaint against your health care provider, you can submit an online complaint by visiting this website: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dora/DPO_File_Complaint. 14 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure APPENDIX B MODEL SEXUAL MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE STATEMENT DISCLAIMER: This Model Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Statement is to be used as a guide only and is aimed only to assist the practitioner in complying with section 12-30-115, C.R.S., and the rules promulgated pursuant to this statute by the Director. As a licensed, registered, and/or certified health care licensee in the State of Colorado, you are responsible for ensuring that you are in compliance with state statutes and rules. While the information below must be included in your Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Statement pursuant to section 12-30-115, C.R.S., you are welcome to include additional information that specifically applies to your situation and practice.

A. Licensee information, including, at a minimum: name, business address, and business telephone number.

B. A listing of any final convictions of or a guilty plea to a sex offense, as defined in section 16-11.7- 102(3), C.R.S.

C. For each such conviction or guilty plea, the licensee shall provide, at a minimum: 1. The date that the final judgment of conviction or guilty plea was entered; 2. The nature of the offense or conduct that led to the final conviction or guilty plea; 3. The type, scope, and duration of the sentence or other penalty imposed, including whether:

a. The provider entered a guilty plea or was convicted pursuant to a criminal adjudication;

b. The provider was placed on probation and, if so, the duration and terms of the probation and the date the probation ends; and, c. The jurisdiction that imposed the final conviction or issued an order approving the guilty plea.

D. A listing of any final agency action by a professional regulatory board or agency that results in status or other limitation on the licensee’s ability to practice if the final agency action is based in whole or in part on:

1. a conviction for or a guilty plea to a sex offense, as defined in section 16-11.7-102(3), C.R.S., or a finding by the professional regulatory board or Director that the provider committed a sex offense, as defined in as defined in section 16-11.7-102(3), C.R.S.; OR 2. a finding by a professional regulatory board or agency that the provider engaged in unprofessional conduct or other conduct that is grounds for discipline under the part or article of Title 12 of the Colorado Revised Statutes that regulates the provider’s profession, where the failure or conduct is related to, includes, or involves sexual misconduct that results in harm to a patient or presents a significant risk of public harm to patients.

15 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure E. For each such final agency action by a professional regulatory board or agency the provider shall provide, at a minimum:

1. The type, scope, and duration of the agency action imposed, including whether: a. the regulator and licensee entered into a stipulation; b. the agency action resulted from an adjudicated decision; c. the licensee was placed on probation and, if so, the duration and terms of probation; and d. the professional regulatory board or agency imposed any limitations on the licensee’s practice and, if so, a description of the specific limitations and the duration of the limitations.

1) The nature of the offense or conduct, including the grounds for probation or practice limitations specified in the final agency action; 2) The date the final agency action was issued 3) The date the probation status or practice limitation ends; and 4) The contact information for the professional regulatory board or agency that imposed the final agency action on the licensee, including information on how to file a complaint.

Sample Signature Block I have received and read the sexual misconduct disclosure by [Provider Name] and I agree to treatment by [Provider Name].

_______________________________________________________________ Print Patient Name _______________________________________________________________ Patient or Responsible Party’s Signature Date If signed by Responsible Party (parent, legal guardian, or custodian), print Responsible Party’s name and relationship to patient:

16 CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS 3 CCR 711-1 Office of Hearing Aid Provider Licensure _________________________________________________________________________ Editor’s Notes History Entire rule eff. 09/01/2010.

Entire rule emer. rule eff. 07/01/2013.

Entire rule eff. 10/15/2013.

Entire rule eff. 12/30/2013.

Rules 2 C-D, 10 eff. 07/30/2019.

Rule 1.11, Appendix A emer. rules eff. 01/01/2020; expired 04/29/2020. Rule 1.11, Appendix A eff. 04/30/2020.

Rules 1.1 A.3, 1.4, 1.6 emer. rules eff. 10/21/2020.

Rules 1.1 A.3, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.12, Appendix B eff. 12/15/2020. Rules 1.2 A.1, 1.12 E-F eff. 05/30/2021.

Rule 1.8 B eff. 11/14/2021.

Rule 1.4 eff. 06/30/2022.

Rules 1.13, 1.14 emer. rules eff. 08/15/2022.

Annotations Rules 1.2 A.1, 1.12 E.4 (adopted 10/21/2020) were not extended by Senate Bill 21-152 and therefore expired 05/15/2021.

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