Bill > S0471

This bill establishes comprehensive updates to licensing and professional standards for speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island, with significant focus on speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs). The bill details new requirements for SLPA licensing, including specific educational pathways such as two-year program degrees, bachelor's degrees in communication sciences, or related degrees with specific coursework. It extensively defines the scope of practice for SLPAs, clearly outlining what tasks they can and cannot perform under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist, such as developing communication materials, assisting with screenings, administering certain assessments, providing therapy services, and documenting client performance, while prohibiting them from activities requiring professional clinical judgment like diagnostic evaluations or treatment plan modifications. The bill also establishes detailed supervision requirements, mandating specific percentages of direct and indirect supervision, particularly during an SLPA's initial employment period, and requires supervisors to maintain documentation of supervision. Additionally, the bill updates continuing education requirements, specifying clock hours needed for renewal, types of approved educational activities, and provisions for initial licensees and potential hardship exemptions. These changes aim to ensure higher professional standards, clear professional boundaries, and appropriate support for practitioners in speech-language pathology and audiology.

Health and Social Services

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