Dear Colleagues on the Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology,

Thank you for considering public comment regarding the practice of assistant speech-language pathologists in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Clearly specified regulations for SLPAs is critical to protect the clients and students receiving the services, as well as the licensed professionals committed to the provision of quality services. 

Consideration should be given to regulations concerning the education requirements for an SLPA and the specific duties an SLPA can complete.  These duties should be stated clearly so that all professionals, clients, agencies, and employers will understand the scope of practice for an SLPA and how it differs from the scope of practice for an SLP.

Regulations also should consider issues related to supervision of the SLPA.  These would include the minimum percentage of time per month that an SLPA must be supervised directly by an SLP with each client/student and the importance of having a licensed SLP on site.  In addition, time should be specified for discussion and coordination services between the SLPA and the SLP.  Regulations should specify the documentation required to ensure that time is provided and the supervision is completed.  Further, regulations should ensure that employers do not assign SLPAs to licensed professionals without the SLP’s consent. 

These regulatory actions regarding SLPAs will be critical in guiding licensed professionals and their employers to provide effective, ethical treatment for their clients/students.  Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of these comments.

Sincerely,

Donna A. Bryant, MS, CCC-SLP

Lead Speech Language Pathologist

Spotsylvania County Schools

Cedar Forest Elementary

3412 Massaponax Church Road

Fredericksburg, VA 22408

540-834-4569

email:  dbryant@spotsylvania.k12.va.us