Definitions

The following terms used in 130 CMR 416.000 have the meanings given in 130 CMR 416.402 unless the context clearly requires a different meaning. The reimbursability of services defined in 130 CMR 416.402 is not determined by these definitions, but by application of regulations elsewhere in 130 CMR 416.000 and 450.000: Administrative and Billing Regulations. Accessories — those essential items or options on a hearing aid purchased by a hearing instrument specialist that are not intrinsic components of the basic hearing aid unit. Accessories do not include nonessential items such as carrying cases. Adjusted Acquisition Cost — the unit price paid to a manufacturer by a hearing instrument specialist for a hearing aid or accessories, excluding postal-insurance charges. The adjusted acquisition cost does not exceed the manufacturer's current catalog price and is verified by a copy of the manufacturer's invoice retained by the hearing instrument specialist in the member's medical record as described under 130 CMR 416.419. Binaural — the type of fitting or hearing aid necessitated by varying degrees of hearing loss in both ears that requires unparalleled amplification via the use of two microphones and two receivers. Binaural Fitting — the fitting of two hearing aids, one to each ear, by a hearing instrument specialist; the fitting to the second ear taking place no later than six months after the fitting to the first ear. Complete Audiological Evaluation — an evaluation that includes a routine audiological examination (air and bone conduction, spondee thresholds, and word discrimination testing) as recommended by a physician. Date of Service — the date on which the medical service is furnished to a member or, in the case of custom-made goods, the date on which the goods are delivered to a member. Dispense — the prescription of a hearing aid, its modification, its fitting, orientation to its use, and any adjustments required within the manufacturer's trial warranty period. Dispensing Fee — a one-time-only fee for dispensing monaural or binaural hearing aids. The fee includes initial programming, fitting, orientation to its use, and any adjustments required during the manufacturer’s trial warranty period. Hearing Aid — a hearing aid is a small electronic device consisting of a microphone, amplifier and a receiver. Independent Hearing Instrument Specialist – a hearing instrument specialist who is licensed in accordance with 130 CMR 416.404 and who is engaged in the practice of hearing aid dispensing through a private practice or self-employment, or both. Major Repair — a repair to a hearing aid that must be made at a repair facility other than the hearing instrument specialist’s place of business. Minor Repair — a repair to a hearing aid performed at the hearing instrument specialist’s place of business, such as, but not limited to, the replacement or cleaning of tubing. Monaural Fitting — the fitting of one hearing aid by a hearing instrument specialist.