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The Future of Speech-Language Pathology: Embracing License Portability

The Future of Speech-Language Pathology: Embracing License Portability

The shortage of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in K-12 schools and healthcare settings across the United States is a well-documented issue. This scarcity has driven up costs and placed a significant burden on institutions as they struggle to provide necessary speech therapy services. Telepractice, a cost-effective solution that allows practitioners to conduct live therapy sessions via real-time videoconferencing, has shown great promise in addressing this labor problem. However, one significant barrier remains: the lack of license portability for SLPs.

Research presented in the article "The Time Has Come for Speech-Language Pathology License Portability!" by Melissa Jakubowitz, M.A., CCC-SLP, highlights the critical need for a national initiative to create a model for licensure portability in the rehabilitation professions. This blog aims to explore how implementing the outcomes of this research can help practitioners improve their skills and encourage them to advocate for license portability.

Understanding the Problem

Despite the technological advancements that have removed geographic constraints, SLPs still face time-consuming and expensive licensing practices due to the lack of state license portability. Each state has its own licensing process, requiring SLPs to complete multiple applications, submit various documents, pay fees, and endure varying processing times. This duplicative process is particularly burdensome given the high degree of consistency in licensing requirements across states.

The Benefits of License Portability

Implementing license portability would offer several significant benefits:

Advocating for Change

As a practitioner, you can play a crucial role in advocating for license portability. Here are some steps you can take:

Implementing Telepractice

While advocating for license portability, it is also essential to effectively implement telepractice in your work. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Conclusion

License portability is a critical issue that needs to be addressed to fully realize the potential of telepractice in speech-language pathology. By advocating for policy changes and effectively implementing telepractice, practitioners can help alleviate the chronic shortage of SLPs and improve outcomes for children and clients in diverse settings.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Time Has Come for Speech-Language Pathology License Portability!


Citation: Jakubowitz, M. (2011). The Time Has Come for Speech-Language Pathology License Portability! International Journal of Telerehabilitation, 3(2), 27-30. https://doi.org/10.5195/IJT.2011.6079
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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in online therapy apply today!

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