WSR 97-08-023
PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
(Board of Hearing and Speech)
[Filed March 26, 1997, 9:40 a.m.]
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 18.35 RCW (1996) created the certification of audiologists and speech-language pathologists. Examinations are required for certification. Nationally recognized examinations may be used to determine if applicants are qualified for certification.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.35.040 and 18.35.161.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Rules are needed to define the examination process required for certification of audiologists and speech-language pathologists. Rules will provide those individuals desiring certification with the needed information regarding eligibility.
Process for Developing New Rule: The program will work closely with the profession in developing rules. Two public meetings were held to provide an opportunity for public input. The meetings were held in Tacoma and Spokane. The program promoted participation from state-wide school districts who employ speech-language pathologists; the University of Washington, Washington State University and Western Washington University; hospitals and clinics throughout the state and professional associations for speech-language pathologists. Further input has been requested from members of the public who attended the public meetings. From these efforts draft language will be developed and shared for on-going direction from interested persons.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Diane Young, Program Manager, Board of Hearing and Speech, 1300 Quince Street, P.O. Box 47869, Olympia, WA 98504-7869, (360) 753-1817, (360) 586-0205, FAX (360) 586-7774.
March 10, 1997
Diane Young, Program Manager
Board of Hearing and Speech