The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology often receives questions regarding the use of Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs). To help clarify some of the most frequently asked questions, we've compiled a handy guide for you.
1. What is the scope of practice for an SLPA?
The scope of practice for an SLPA is defined by the Regulations Governing the Practice of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. An SLPA can:
- Assist with speech, language, and hearing screenings without clinical interpretation of results.
- Assist during assessment of a client, excluding administration or interpretation.
- Perform routine activities for each session as planned and supervised by a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP).
- Document client performance and report to the supervising SLP.
- Assist with programming augmentative and alternative communication devices and assist clients in repetitive use of such devices.
- Sign or initial informal treatment notes and co-sign formal documents with the supervising SLP upon request.
- Engage in activities such as preparing materials, scheduling appointments, and performing clerical duties.
- Perform duties not restricted to the practice of speech-language pathology.
2. Are all individuals that assist an SLP an SLPA?
No, not all individuals assisting an SLP are SLPAs. Only those performing duties defined in the SLPA scope of practice need to be classified as SLPAs. Individuals performing only clerical or preparatory functions do not need to be SLPAs.
3. How many assistants may an SLP supervise?
An SLP may supervise the equivalent of two full-time speech-language pathology assistants.
4. Can an SLPA implement treatment services?
Yes, an SLPA may implement treatment services that have been planned and developed by their supervising SLP.
5. How often must the SLP observe and evaluate the SLPA implementing treatment services?
The supervising SLP must provide documented onsite supervision of at least two client sessions for each SLPA every 30 days. This supervision is to directly observe and evaluate the SLPA's performance.
6. Is the SLP required to observe and evaluate at least two client sessions every 30 days for each client for which an SLPA is implementing treatment services?
No, the requirement is for the SLP to provide onsite supervision of a minimum of two client sessions per SLPA every 30 days, not per client.
7. May an SLP provide onsite supervision of an SLPA via tele-supervision?
Yes, onsite supervision can be conducted in-person or via real-time, audio-visual electronic communication. Recordings do not meet this requirement.
8. Must the SLP who provides direct treatment and plans treatment for the SLPA also provide the supervisory observations of the SLPA?
Yes, the SLP providing treatment and planning for the SLPA must also conduct the supervisory observations. If the SLPA works for multiple SLPs, each SLP must observe and supervise the SLPA twice a month.
9. How often is the SLP required to provide services to a client that utilizes SLPAs?
The SLP must meet with each client receiving services from the SLPA at least once every 30 days to provide treatment and aid in planning and developing treatment to be implemented by the SLPA.
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