New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Spe - Governing Board of Speech-Language Pathologists and Hearing Care Providers
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, specifically Chapter Spe 600, governs the practice of speech-language assistants under the oversight of the Governing Board of Speech-Language Pathologists and Hearing Care Providers. These rules are designed to ensure that assistants provide services under appropriate supervision, maintaining high standards of care and protecting public health and safety.
Key Provisions of Spe 607.01
1. Supervision Requirements
Initial 90 Workdays: For newly certified speech-language assistants, the supervising speech-language pathologist must provide:
20% direct supervision of clinical time each week.
10% indirect supervision of clinical time each week.
Post-90 Workdays:
Less than 5 Years of Experience: Continued supervision with at least 10% direct and 10% indirect supervision of clinical time weekly.
5 or More Years of Experience: The supervising speech-language pathologist has discretion over the amount of supervision, but at least one hour of direct and one hour of indirect supervision per week is required.
These provisions aim to balance autonomy with accountability, ensuring that assistants operate within their competencies while under appropriate oversight.
2. Prohibited Actions for Speech-Language Assistants
Section Spe 607.06 outlines specific actions that certified speech-language assistants are prohibited from performing:
Representing themselves as licensed speech-language pathologists.
Conducting diagnostic tests or evaluations, including swallowing screenings.
Interpreting results of feeding and swallowing evaluations.
Participating in formal parent or case conferences without the supervising speech-language pathologist present.
Providing interpretative information regarding patient status or services to clients or families.
These restrictions are in place to prevent unauthorized practice and ensure that critical clinical decisions are made by licensed professionals.
3. Sanctions for Misconduct
Under Part Spe 404.02, the board has the authority to impose various sanctions for misconduct, including:
Revocation or suspension of licenses or certificates.
Suspension conditioned on meeting continuing competence requirements or additional training.
Suspension contingent upon successful participation in mental or physical health treatment programs.
These sanctions are designed to maintain professional standards and protect the public from unprofessional conduct.
Case Law and Precedents
While specific case law directly interpreting Spe 607.01 is limited, the principles outlined in these rules align with broader legal standards governing professional conduct and supervision in healthcare settings. For instance, cases involving unauthorized practice or failure to supervise adequately often result in disciplinary actions, including license suspension or revocation. These precedents underscore the importance of adhering to supervisory requirements and the limitations placed on assistants to ensure patient safety and quality of care.
Conclusion
The regulations set forth in Spe 607.01 provide a structured framework for the practice of speech-language assistants in New Hampshire, emphasizing the necessity of proper supervision and delineating clear boundaries for their scope of practice. By adhering to these rules, professionals can contribute to a healthcare environment that prioritizes patient safety and upholds the integrity of the profession.
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