VA 18VAC30-21-60 Comment Letter 

Dear Members of the Board,

My name is Allison Croushorn and I am a practicing audiologist at Fauquier ENT Consultants in Warrenton, Virginia. I am writing to express my support for the proposed amendment to 18VAC30-21-60(A) to restore American Board of Audiology (ABA) certification as an accepted pathway for audiology licensure.

ABA certification is a nationally recognized credential that reflects education, examination, and professional requirements specific to audiology. When ABA certification was removed from the regulations, it reduced flexibility and limited licensure options for qualified audiologists. Restoring this pathway will help ensure that Virginia can attract and retain highly trained audiologists while maintaining strong professional standards.

Recognizing multiple pathways is important for supporting workforce mobility and ensuring patient access to hearing and balance care across the Commonwealth. As someone who is new to the profession, I can see how this will directly negatively impact audiologists who are new to and currently working in the profession. This certification allows for an additional licensure pathway and recognition of Au.Ds who go above the required education needs and take pride in their career.  I believe this change will benefit both professionals and patients.

Thank you for your work to modernize and clarify audiology licensure regulations in Virginia. I appreciate the opportunity to comment on this amendment and encourage the Board to move forward with recognizing ABA certification as an accepted pathway to licensure.

Sincerely,

Allison Croushorn

Fauquier ENT Consultants

Warrenton, VA

Acroushorn1@gmail.com