SLPA, The New Paraprofessional “Do not fear change, for it is an unchangeable law of progress”

 Speech-Language Pathology is a dynamic field. 1. SLP have a new role, supervisor to SLPA. 2. SLP assistants are the new paraprofessionals.  SLP have tirelessly balanced difficult loads; 1. Caseloads have soared with the changing demographics. 2. Legislation has increased the load and the paperwork. 3. The SLP time in consultation has increased. SLP, A Changing Profession

History of SLPA  ASHA Guidelines first set in  24 States had provisions for assistants in licensing laws by  ASHA began a plan for credentialing assistants by  The cost of credentialing SLPA became an issue resulting in ASHA dropping SLPA credentialing in December 2003.

ASHA Legislative Council  MARCH 2004 Legislative Council met to resolve issue.  Medicare Payment of Assistants Need ASHA backing.  Consistent Training and Licensure require National Guidelines.  SLP Shortages makes SLPA licensing an Urgent need.

San Joaquin Delta College SLPA Program  ASHA article in 1996 brought SLPA to our attention.  Clinton goal to limit welfare to two year was significant.  Delta decided to write an SLPA program.  Program started officially in 2001.

Therapy and Education Assistants  Physical Therapy Assistants were born in  Occupational Therapy Assistants were created during WWII.  Educational Assistants have been employed since the 1960’s.

Acceptance of SLPA  SLP were concerned that the SLPA would be another job for them.  SLP were worried that they would lose jobs.  Those fears still exist in places, but not where SLPA are employed.  They are not just accepted, but welcomed.  SLPA can make a difference.

Coursework for SLPA Program

Delta College SLPA Program  We are graduating 10 Assistants this year.  We have 21 new students beginning the program.  We have a small clinic on campus.  We are taking 14 students to CSHA next week.  Our students are creating a website and a club.

CSHA Conference  2003 CSHA conference attended by 9 students.  2004 CSHA conference will be attended by 14 students.  Students learn professionalism at conferences.

Who Are We Looking For?  SLPA needs to have an interest in science.  They must also have a positive attitude toward people with disabilities.  Knowledge and compassion are key to success in SLPA.  Clerical skills, crafts, creativity are also useful attributes.

What Do They Do?  SLPA do clerical duties.  SLPA enter information on the IEP.  SLPA work on materials for therapy.  SLPA create material on Boardmaker.  SLPA test and screen. (No evaluation.)  SLPA carry out therapy with clients.

CLERICAL DUTIES

IEP INFORMATION

MAKE THERAPY MATERIALS

TEST AND SCREEN CLIENTS

CLIENT THERAPY

What Is The Current Compensation?  SLPA are currently earning between 65% and 75% of the SLP wages.  That translates to $20-$30 and hour.  Full time SLPA also have full medical benefits.

How Is The Job Market?  Private Clinics have recently requested SLPA training and supervision in their facilities.  Stockton Unified School District has contracted with Delta college to hire our graduates.  Headstart has written in job descriptions for SLPA.  Local Hospitals are interested.

Quotes from Supervisors  “Increased students’ progress due to more opportunity to practice.”  “Completion of clerical duties gives SLP more time with students.”  “SLPA’s observations are valuable input.”  “Beneficial for students who need more repetition in short time period.”  “Helps students remain on task.”

Current Issues  ASHA Participation  State Guidelines  Diverse Needs  Two Year versus 4 Year Programs  Medicare Payments for SLPA  California Needs Spurring Acceptance  ASHA 3-1 Plan and the SLPA  Eugene, Oregon Use of the SLPA

Future of SLPA  I think that from the evidence so far SLPA will be valued and accepted for their contribution to the Speech-Language Pathology field.  If the future depends on competent, enthusiastic, knowledgeable Assistants, I have no concern about their future acceptance.