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Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant 

An SLPA must complete an approved course of academic study, field work under the supervision of an ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP, and on-the-job training specific to SLPA responsibilities and workplace behaviors.

Expectations of a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

1. Seek employment only in settings in which direct and indirect supervision are provided on a regular and systematic basis by an ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP.
2. Adhere to the responsibilities for SLPAs specified in this document and refrain from performing tasks or activities that are the sole responsibility of the SLP.
3. Perform only those tasks prescribed by the supervising SLP.
4. Adhere to all applicable state licensure laws and rules regulating the practice of speech-language pathology, such as those requiring licensure or registration of support personnel.
5. Conduct oneself ethically within the scope of practice and responsibilities for an SLPA.
6. Actively participate with the SLP in the supervisory process.
7. Consider securing liability insurance.
8. Actively pursue continuing education and professional development activities.

Responsibilities Within the Scope for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

The supervising SLP retains full legal and ethical responsibility for the students, patients, and clients he or she serves but may delegate specific tasks to the SLPA. The SLPA may execute specific components of a speech and language program as specified in treatment plans developed by the SLP. Goals and objectives listed on the treatment plan and implemented by the SLPA are only those within their scope of responsibilities and are tasks the SLP has determined the SLPA has the training and skill to perform. The SLP must provide at least the minimum specified level of supervision to ensure quality of care to all persons served. The amount of supervision may vary and must depend on the complexity of the case and the experience of the assistant. Under no circumstances should use of the ASHA Code of Ethics or the quality of services provided be diluted or circumvented by the use of an SLPA. Again, the use of an SLPA is optional, and an SLPA should be used only when appropriate.

Provided that the training, supervision, and planning are appropriate, tasks in the following areas of focus may be delegated to an SLPA.

Service Delivery

1. Self-identify as SLPAs to families, students, patients, clients, staff, and others. This may be done verbally, in writing, and/or with titles on name badges.
2. Exhibit compliance with The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations, reimbursement requirements, and SLPAs' responsibilities.
3. Assist the SLP with speech, language, and hearing screenings without clinical interpretation.
4. Assist the SLP during assessment of students, patients, and clients exclusive of administration and/or interpretation
5. Assist the SLP with bilingual translation during screening and assessment activities exclusive of interpretation; refer to Issues in Ethics: Cultural and Linguistic Competence (ASHA 2017).
6. Follow documented treatment plans or protocols developed by the supervising SLP.
7. Provide guidance and treatment via telepractice to students, patients, and clients who are selected by the supervising SLP as appropriate for this service delivery model.
8. Document student, patient, and client performance (e.g., tallying data for the SLP to use; preparing charts, records, and graphs) and report this information to the supervising SLP.
9. Program and provide instruction in the use of augmentative and alternative communication devices.
10. Demonstrate or share information with patients, families, and staff regarding feeding strategies developed and directed by the SLP.
11. Serve as interpreter for patients/clients/students and families who do not speak English.
12. Provide services under SLP supervision in another language for individuals who do not speak English and English-language learners.