| (a) Hearing tests for use in compensation ratings shall be
derived from the pure-tone audiogram calculated to ANSI-S3.6-1969 standards.
Examination should be performed by a medical specialist who does hearing evaluations
or by an audiologist having the certificate of clinical competence from the
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association upon referral. Hearing handicap
will be based on the functional state of both ears.
(b) The average of the hearing threshold levels at 500 Hz,
1,000 Hz, 2,000 Hz, and 3,000 Hz should be calculated for each ear. The percent
of impairment for each ear should be calculated by multiplying by 1.5 the
amount by which the above average hearing threshold level exceeds 25 dB up
to a maximum of 100% which is reached at 92dB. The hearing handicap, a bilateral
assessment, should then be calculated by multiplying the smaller percentage
(better ear), by five, adding this figure to the larger percentage (poorer
ear), and dividing the total by six.
(c) Since there is no exact scientific test by which non-industrial
hearing losses can be distinguished from induced impairment, the opinion as
to the amount of loss due to such other causes shall be made by the examining
medical specialist.
(d) No consideration shall be given to possible improvements
through use of prosthesis. Where artificial appliances would materially and
beneficially improve the future usefulness and occupational opportunities
of the employee, the insurer shall provide same, and shall continue to furnish
the needed artificial appliance or appliances until a satisfactory fit is
obtained in the judgment of the attending physician or physicians. The association
shall be liable for replacing or repairing any artificial appliances so furnished.
(e) Such prosthesis shall be prescribed upon proper evaluation
by a medical specialist who does hearing aid evaluations or by an audiologist
having the certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association upon referral. Such hearing and speech centers shall have no commercial
properties.
(f) The above formula should be used in calculating the percentage
of loss of hearing, but the doctor giving the report shall state specifically
the exact loss of hearing in percentage, and not decibels.
(g) See examples and chart.
Attached Graphic
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| Source Note: The provisions of this §55.30 adopted to be effective November 20, 1977, 2 TexReg 4320; amended to be effective September 18, 1981, 6 TexReg 3340; amended to be effective November 11, 1983, 8 TexReg 4496 |
