Let’s talk about Speech Therapy signing requirements versus Speech supervision requirements. Four different types of speech providers do require supervision under the SHARS program;
- TEA Certified SLP
- SLP Intern
- Grandfathered SLP
- SLP Assistants
The rates and procedure codes for TEA Certified, SLP Intern, Grandfathered SLP and ASHA or equivalent SLP are all the same. Only the SLPA has different procedure codes and rates. While the Speech licensing board may have different requirements, here is what the SHARS Handbook has to say about Speech supervision.
“Speech and language services can also be provided by an SLP with a TEA certification (according to Texas Occupations Code §401.054), a licensed SLP intern, or a grandfathered SLP when acting under the supervision or direction of a licensed SLP, or a licensed assistant in speech-language pathology acting under the supervision or direction of an SLP.
2.3.9.1 Supervision Requirements for SLPs
A supervisor of an intern or assistant shall:
• Ensure that all services provided are in compliance with 16 TAC §111.154 and current state licensure a supervisor of an assistant shall:
• Be responsible for evaluations, interpretation, and case management
- Not designate anyone other than a licensed speech-language pathologist or intern in speech-language pathology to represent speech-language pathology to an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings, except as provided by TAC §111.51 and §111.52.
A licensed intern or assistant shall abide by the decisions made by his or her supervisor relating to the intern’s or assistant’s practice and duties. If the supervisor requests that the intern or assistant violate this policy, the Act, or any other law, the intern or assistant shall refuse to do so and immediately notify the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and any other appropriate authority.
The SLP who provides the direction must ensure that the personnel who carry out the directives meet qualifications set forth in the rules of the TDLR that relate to Licensed Interns or Assistants in Speech-Language Pathology.” SHARS Handbook November 2021, Page 22.
TAC 111.51 and 111.52 are only referenced in regards to ARD meetings. On the topic of signing sessions, SLPAs must have their supervisors sign their sessions in ONWARD. This is a licensing requirement not a SHARS requirement. SLPAs specifically cannot sign any documents without their supervising SLPs signature as well. This signing requirement does not apply to any other providers that require supervision, only SLPAs. Please see TAC 111.52 (d)(18). Furthermore, SHARS rules do not indicate that the actual session notes must be signed by the supervisor for any provider.