I am the Director of Communication Services at Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center.  I am fully in support of the use of SLP-As, but my thoughts on regulations may be considered stringent:

1.  The SLP-A should have a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Speech-Language Pathology (most individuals interested in this position already do).
2. The SLP-A should pass a praxis type of standardized test commensurate with a B.S./B.A.
3. I did not understand the language stated which read, “no statutory authority to issue a license to assistants?”- If an individual has a minimum of a B.S./B.A. and passes a praxis, then the licensing board should be able to create a license for the SLP-A.  It is also more cost effective for the consumer if the SLP-A can bill under his/her own license at a reduced cost.

Naturally an SLP-A should not be involved with assessments or any dysphagia therapy.  I personally would want to know an exact percentage of supervision with each client that would need to occur, and feel a log/documentation should be kept and submitted in compliance with that regulatory standard.

Thank—you!

Ginger  Shifflett, M.S. CCC-SLP