Can Audiology Assistants present written or oral reports of client information to anyone other than their supervisor?

Audiology Assistants are required to adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines and ethical standards regarding client information. Because they operate under the supervision of licensed audiologists, they are specifically trained to communicate client information only to their supervisor. This ensures that sensitive information remains protected and is conveyed by a qualified professional responsible for maintaining client confidentiality and compliance with legal standards.

The restriction placed on Audiology Assistants regarding communication of client information is meant to safeguard the client's privacy and maintain the integrity of the professional relationship. Supervisors are charged with overseeing the work and ensuring appropriate patient care, so any information that an Audiology Assistant handles should be communicated directly to their supervisor who can then decide if and how to share it appropriately.

This policy aligns with best practices in healthcare regarding information sharing and client confidentiality, adhering to regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which mandates that only authorized individuals have access to personal health information. Therefore, the correct position is that Audiology Assistants can only present written or oral reports of client information to their supervisor.