Earlier this month, the FCC waived the treatment of 800 numbers for another 6 months while it reviews the numbering rulemaking process. The new rules would be issued in the near future. The new rules could restrict the use of 800/866 numbers or extend its restriction for another period of time. That remains to be seen.

Some providers continue to use 866 numbers which could be removed from the iTRS data base if the FCC decides to do so. If that happens, those VP’s with 866 numbers would not be able to receive calls from certain phones. The FCC is encouraging those with 866 numbers to switch over to their assigned local (non-866) numbers. The only advantage of having 866 numbers is for hearing people to call deaf and hard of hearing people toll free. That advantage is not worth much today because many cell phones have no distance calling charges as they come with free minutes.

Dr. Z is encouraging those with 866 numbers to switch over to local numbers which they already have and give the local numbers to their hearing providers (doctors, dentists, etc.) as well as hearing family members.

The text of the FCC waiver can be found at this link.

Dr. Z cares about your communication access.

Disclosure: Dr. Z is a contractor working with CSDVRS on several projects.