Audiology & Speech Language Pathology
Practice of audiology means the application of evidence-based practice in clinical decision making for the prevention, assessment, habilitation, rehabilitation, and maintenance of persons with hearing, auditory function, and vestibular function impairments and related impairments, including (1) cerumen removal from the cartilaginous outer one-third portion of the external auditory canal when the presence of cerumen may affect the accuracy of hearing evaluations or impressions of the ear canal for amplification devices and (2) evaluation, selection, fitting, and dispensing of hearing aids, external processors of implantable hearing aids, and assistive technology devices as part of a comprehensive audiological rehabilitation program. Practice of audiology does not include the practice of medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or surgery.
description continued......
Practice of speech-language pathology means the application of principles and methods associated with the development and disorders of human communication skills and with dysphagia, which principles and methods include screening, assessment, evaluation, treatment, prevention, consultation, and restorative modalities for speech, voice, language, language-based learning, hearing, swallowing, or other upper aerodigestive functions for the purpose of improving quality of life by reducing impairments of body functions and structures, activity limitations, participation restrictions, and environmental barriers. Practice of speech-language pathology does not include the practice of medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or surgery.
Licensure Exceptions: The following are not required to obtain an audiology or speech-language pathology license pursuant to Neb. Rev. Stat. §38-511. Nothing in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Practice Act shall be construed to prevent or restrict:
- The practice of audiology or speech-language pathology or the use of the official title of such practice by a person employed as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist by the federal government;
- A physician from engaging in the practice of medicine and surgery or any individual from carrying out any properly delegated responsibilities within the normal practice of medicine and surgery under the supervision of a physician;
- A person licensed as a hearing aid fitter and dealer in this state from engaging in the fitting, selling, and servicing of hearing aids or performing such other duties as defined in the Hearing Aid Instrument Dispensers and Fitters Practice Act;
- The practice of audiology or speech-language pathology or the use of the official title of such practice by a person who holds a valid and current credential as a speech-language pathologist or audiologist issued by the State Department of Education, if such person performs speech-language pathology or audiology services solely as a part of his or her duties within an agency, institution, or organization for which no fee is paid directly or indirectly by the recipient of such service and under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Education, but such person may elect to be within the jurisdiction of the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Practice Act;
- The clinical practice in audiology or speech-language pathology required for students enrolled in an accredited college or university pursuing a major in audiology or speech-language pathology, if such clinical practices are supervised by a person licensed to practice audiology or speech-language pathology and if the student is designated by a title such as student clinician or other title clearly indicating the training status; or
- The utilization of a speech aide or other personnel employed by a public school, educational service unit, or other private or public educational institution working under the direct supervision of a credentialed speech-language pathologist.
Speech-Language Pathology: An official transcript (official means issued and sealed by the issuing institution) showing proof of a master’s degree or it’s equivalent in Speech-Language Pathology from an academic program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association;
Audiology: Graduation prior to September 1, 2007 – Requires a master’s degree or its equivalent in Audiology from a program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association;
Audiology: Graduation on or after September 1, 2007 - Requires a doctoral degree or its equivalent in Audiology from a program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Requirements for Licensure
Qualifications: To receive a credential to practice audiology or speech-language pathology, an individual must meet the following qualifications:
Age and Good Character: Be at least 19 years old and of good character;
Citizenship/Resident Information: Be a citizen of the United States, an alien lawfully admitted into the United States for permanent residence under the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA) and who is eligible for a credential under the Uniform Credentialing Act, or a nonimmigrant whose visa for entry, or application for visa for entry, is related to employment in the United States
Education: Have a degree from an approved academic program in audiology or speec-language pathology as follows;
An audiologist graduating prior to September 1, 2007 must present proof of a master’s degree or a doctoral degree, or the equivalent of a master’s degree or doctoral degree in audiology;
An audiologist graduating on or after September 1, 2007 must present proof of a doctoral degree or its equivalent in audiology;
A speech-language pathologist must present proof of a master’s degree, doctoral degree, or the equivalent of a master’s degree or doctoral degree in speech-language pathology
Examination: Have passed the licensure examination with a scaled score of 600 or above;
Have completed Professional Experience. The Professional Experience must include:
Supervision in the area in which licensure is sought by
An audiologist or speech-language pathologist who holds a valid Nebraska license or who meets Nebraska requirements for licensure; or
One who holds certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The supervisor's license or certification must be in the professional area in which the clinical fellow works.
Consist of direct clinical work with patients, consultations, record keeping, and other duties relevant to a program of clinical work including clinical experience with persons who have communication handicaps.
Consists of direct management of treatment programs for specific patients or clients; and
Have the supervising audiologist or speech-language pathologist monitor and evaluate the applicant's performance for at least 36 weeks of full time experience or equivalent half-time experience.
Endorsement: An applicant for licensure to practice audiology or speech-language pathology on the basis of endorsement by a nationwide professional accrediting organization who has obtained certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or equivalent and meets the qualification listed in items 3, 4, and 5;
To qualify for licensure as an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist based on education, you must submit the following:
A completed
application;
Licensure fee of $140
Proof of Age: Evidence of at least 19 years of age (i.e.: driver’s license,Birth certificate, marriage license, school transcript, US State ID card,Military ID, or similar documentation);
Proof of Citizenship, lawful permanent residence, and/or immigration status: You must submit a copy of at least one of the following documents:
A U.S.Passport (unexpired or expired);
A birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal;
An American Indian Card (I-872);
A Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570);
A Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561);
Certification of Report of Birth (DS-1350);
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (FS-240);
Certification of Birth Abroad (FS-545 or DS-1350);
A United States Citizen Identification Card (I-197 or I-179);
A Northern Mariana Card (I-873);
An Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551, otherwise known as a “Green Card”);
An unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired Temporary I-551 stamp bearing the same name as the passport;
A document showing an Alien Registration Number (“A#”) with visa status; or
A form I-94 (arrival-departure Record) with visa status.
An official transcript (official means issued and sealed by the issuing institution) showing proof of a degree or its equivalent in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology from a program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association; for more information regarding the degree, click here (link to page 6 degree section)
Official documentation of passing the PRAXIS Series Specialty Tests in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology with a scaled score of 600 or above sent directly from the Educational Testing Service. When requesting your scores from the Educational Testing Service, please use the following Nebraska Code: 7646;
Documentation of completion of the Clinical Fellowship/Professional Experience (Form A1) that meets the following criteria:
Completed under the supervision of 1) an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist who holds a valid Nebraska license or who meets Nebraska requirements for licensure or 2) one who holds certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The supervisor’s license or certification must be in the professional area in which the Clinical Fellow works;
Consist of direct clinical work with patients, consultations, record keeping, and other duties relevant to a program of clinical work including clinical experience with persons who have communication handicaps. Such professional experience must deal directly with the management of treatment programs for specific patients or clients; and
The supervising Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist monitored and evaluated the applicant’s performance.
Official documentation of certification by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or equivalent;
Court records and letter of explanation if convicted of a misdemeanor or felony;
Official court records, which includes charges and disposition;
Copies of arrest records;
A letter from you explaining the circumstances surrounding the conviction;
If the conviction involved a drug and/or alcohol related offense, all addiction/mental health evaluations and proof of treatment (if treatment was obtained and/or required); and
If you are currently on probation, a letter from your probation officer addressing probationary conditions and your current status.
NOTE: If you have any criminal charges or license disciplinary actions pending that results in conviction or license discipline, you are required to report such actions to this department within 30 days.
Completion of the jurisprudence examination (please link). The jurisprudence examination is not a requirement for licensure in Nebraska. The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology feels that if you do not participate in this test, you may not have the knowledge of what is needed to practice Audiology/Speech-Language Pathology in Nebraska.
To qualify for licensure as an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist based on Endorsement (ASHA), you must submit the following:
A completed
Licensure fee of $140
Proof of Age: Evidence of at least 19 years of age (i.e.: driver’s license,Birth certificate, marriage license, school transcript, US State ID card,Military ID, or similar documentation);
Proof of Citizenship, lawful permanent residence, and/or immigration status: You must submit a copy of at least one of the following documents:
A U.S.Passport (unexpired or expired);
A birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal;
An American Indian Card (I-872);
A Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570);
A Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561);
Certification of Report of Birth (DS-1350);
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (FS-240);
Certification of Birth Abroad (FS-545 or DS-1350);
A United States Citizen Identification Card (I-197 or I-179);
A Northern Mariana Card (I-873);
An Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551, otherwise known as a “Green Card”);
An unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired Temporary I-551 stamp bearing the same name as the passport;
A document showing an Alien Registration Number (“A#”) with visa status; or
A form I-94 (arrival-departure Record) with visa status
Official documentation of verification of certification (Certificate of Clinical Competence) by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or equivalent.
Court records and letter of explanation if convicted of a misdemeanor or felony;
Official court records, which includes charges and disposition;
Copies of arrest records;
A letter from you explaining the circumstances surrounding the conviction;
If the conviction involved a drug and/or alcohol related offense, all addiction/mental health evaluations and proof of treatment (if treatment was obtained and/or required); and
If you are currently on probation, a letter from your probation officer addressing probationary conditions and your current status.
NOTE: If you have any criminal charges or license disciplinary actions pending that results in conviction or license discipline, you are required to report such actions to this department within 30 days.
Completion of the jurisprudence examination. The jurisprudence examination is not a requirement for licensure in Nebraska. The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology feels that if you do not participate in this test, you may not have the knowledge of what is needed to practice Audiology/Speech-Language Pathology in Nebraska
To qualify for licensure as an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist based on a license issued in another jurisdiction, you must submit the following:
A completed
Licensure fee of $140
Proof of Age: Evidence of at least 19 years of age (i.e.: driver’s license,Birth certificate, marriage license, school transcript, US State ID card,Military ID, or similar documentation);
Proof of Citizenship, lawful permanent residence, and/or immigration status: You must submit a copy of at least one of the following documents:
A U.S.Passport (unexpired or expired);
A birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal;
An American Indian Card (I-872);
A Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570);
A Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561);
Certification of Report of Birth (DS-1350);
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (FS-240);
Certification of Birth Abroad (FS-545 or DS-1350);
A United States Citizen Identification Card (I-197 or I-179);
A Northern Mariana Card (I-873);
An Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551, otherwise known as a “Green Card”);
An unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired Temporary I-551 stamp bearing the same name as the passport;
A document showing an Alien Registration Number (“A#”) with visa status; or
A form I-94 (arrival-departure Record) with visa status
Have the licensing or certifying agency submit to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, Licensure Unit:
A certification that the applicant is duly licensed or certified, that his or her license or certificate has never been suspended or revoked, and that so far as the record of the agency is concerned, the applicant is entitled to its endorsement on a form provided by the Department or on a form provided by the other state licensing office. (Certifications from each jurisdiction or state where applicant is currently or previously licensed are required.) Such certification shall include:
The nature of disciplinary actions, if any taken against the applicant’s license or certificate;
The date of the applicant’s license or certificate;
The name of the examination on which licensure was based;
The score attained on the examination; and
Documentation of the requirements for licensure or certification in the other jurisdiction which are currently in effect and which were in effect at the time the license was issued.
In addition, if the jurisdiction does not provide the examination and education information, you must submit an official transcript:
Audiology/Speech-Language Pathology: An official transcript (official means issued and sealed by the issuing institution) showing proof of a degree or it’s equivalent in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology (link to degree)from an academic program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association;
If convicted of a misdemeanor or felony;
Official court records, which includes charges and disposition;
Copies of arrest records;
A letter from you explaining the circumstances surrounding the conviction;
If the conviction involved a drug and/or alcohol related offense, all addiction/mental health evaluations and proof of treatment (if treatment was obtained and/or required); and
If you are currently on probation, a letter from your probation officer addressing probationary conditions and your current status.
NOTE: If you have any criminal charges or license disciplinary actions pending that results in conviction or license discipline, you are required to report such actions to this department within 30 days.
Completion of the Jurisprudence examination (link). The jurisprudence examination is not a requirement for licensure in Nebraska. The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology feels that if you do not participate in this test, you may not have the knowledge of what is needed to practice Audiology/Speech-Language Pathology in Nebraska
Requirements for Temporary Licensure
To qualify for a temporary Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology license, you must submit the following:
A completed
Licensure fee of $140
Proof of Age: Evidence of at least 19 years of age (i.e.: driver’s license,Birth certificate, marriage license, school transcript, US State ID card,Military ID, or similar documentation);
Proof of Citizenship, lawful permanent residence, and/or immigration status: You must submit a copy of at least one of the following documents:
A U.S.Passport (unexpired or expired);
A birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal;
An American Indian Card (I-872);
A Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570);
A Certificate of Citizenship (N-560 or N-561);
Certification of Report of Birth (DS-1350);
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (FS-240);
Certification of Birth Abroad (FS-545 or DS-1350);
A United States Citizen Identification Card (I-197 or I-179);
A Northern Mariana Card (I-873);
An Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551, otherwise known as a “Green Card”);
An unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired Temporary I-551 stamp bearing the same name as the passport;
A document showing an Alien Registration Number (“A#”) with visa status; or
A form I-94 (arrival-departure Record) with visa status
An official transcript (official means issued and sealed by the issuing institution) showing proof of a degree or its equivalent (link) in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology from a program accredited by the Education Standards Board of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association;
If convicted of a misdemeanor or felony;
Official court records, which includes charges and disposition;
Copies of arrest records;
A letter from you explaining the circumstances surrounding the convictionn
If the conviction involved a drug and/or alcohol related offense, all addiction/mental health evaluations and proof of treatment (if treatment was obtained and/or required); and
If you are currently on probation, a letter from your probation officer ddressing probationary conditions and your current status.
NOTE: If you have any criminal charges or license disciplinary actions pending that results in conviction or license discipline, you are required to report such actions to this department within 30 days.
Official documentation of passing the National Teachers Examination for Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology with a scaled score of 600 or above (The PRAXIS Series Specialty Tests in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology) sent directly from the Educational Testing Service. When requesting your scores from the Educational Testing Service, please use the following Nebraska Code: 7646
OR
This requirement is only for applicants who have not passed the licensure exam but have completed the Clinical Fellowship/Professional Experience
Documentation of completion of the Clinical Fellowship/Professional Experience (Form A1) that meets the following criteria
Completed under the supervision of 1) an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist who holds a valid Nebraska license or who meets Nebraska requirements for licensure or 2) one who holds certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The supervisor’s license or certification must be in the professional area in which the Clinical Fellow works;
Consist of direct clinical work with patients, consultations, record keeping, and other duties relevant to a program of clinical work including clinical experience with persons who have communication handicaps. Such professional experience must deal directly with the management of treatment programs for specific patients or clients; and
The supervising Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist monitored and evaluated the applicant’s performance.
Important – please read:
This temporary license is valid only until either the expiration date or upon completion of the Clinical Fellowship/Professional Experience, whichever is sooner. Upon completion of the Clinical Fellowship/Professional Experience or the expiration date, your temporary license becomes null and void. If you continue to practice you may be subject to an administrative penalty of $10.00 per day up to a maximum of $1,000.00. You must apply by education for permanent licensure upon completion of the Clinical Fellowship.
An individual whose credential has expired, been placed on inactive status, voluntarily surrendered unrelated to discipline, been placed on lapsed status or non-disciplinary revocation may apply for reinstatement at any time. The applicant must:
Submit a completed reinstatement application;
Obtain 20 hours of continuing education according to 172 NAC 23-009; and
Pay the fee(s):
An individual whose credential was suspended or limited may apply for reinstatement at any time. An individual whose credential has been revoked may apply for reinstatement after a period of two years has elapsed from the date of revocation. An individual whose credential was voluntarily surrendered may apply for reinstatement according to the order entered by the Director. To apply for reinstatement, the individual must contact the Licensure Unit for further direction. (402-471-2299).
Jurisprudence Examination
The
The following open book jurisprudence examination is provided for your benefit to assist you in gaining further knowledge about the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology in the state of Nebraska in order to protect your license.
The qualifying examination for licensure in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology is The PRAXIS Series Specialty Tests in Language Pathology or Audiology provided by the Educational Testing Service.
Educational Testing Service
Rosedale Road, MS 04-R
Princeton, New Jersey 08541
Telephone Number: (609) 921-9000
Fax Number: (609) 734-5410
www.ets.org
Applications
These forms may be completed online, however, they cannot be submitted via e-mail due to the fact that all applications and forms require original signatures. If you complete the form online, you must print the form and mail it to the address below.
Fees (if applicable) are payable to: DHHS/Licensure Unit Licensure Unit
PO Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
All Audiology and Speech Language Pathology licenses expire December 1 of each even-numbered year. The Department will send all active license holders a renewal notice at least 30 days before December 1 of each even-numbered year to the license holder’s last address of record. The licensee must choose one of the following options during the renewal period:
Active status: Submit the renewal notice, the renewal fee of $140 and attestation of completing 20 hours of continuing education during the preceding 24 month period; or
Inactive status: Submit the renewal notice with a check in the box marked inactive. No fee is required for inactive status.
All renewals must be postmarked on or before December 1 to avoid expiration. If you continue to practice you will be subject to an administrative penalty of $10 per day up to a maximum of $1,000.
Inactive – Means that you cannot practice but may represent yourself as having an inactive license. To change from inactive to active status you must meet renewal requirements which are in effect at the time the status change is requested.
Persons who placed their credentials on inactive status during the last renewal period or during prior renewal periods will not be sent a renewal notice.
Continuing Competency means the offering of instruction or information to licensees for the purpose of maintaining skills necessary for the safe and competent practice of audiology or speech-language pathology. The continuing education may be offered under such names as "scientific school", "clinic", "forum", "lecture", "course of study" or "educational seminar".
Continuing Competency Requirements:
All licensees must complete 20 hours of acceptable continuing education on or before December 1 of each even-numbered year. In order for a continuing education activity to be accepted, it must relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology or speech-language pathology and it may focus on research, treatment, documentation, management or education.
Each audiologist or speech-language pathologist who is in active practice in the State of Nebraska must complete 20 hours of continuing education during the preceding 24 month period; no more hours than the total number of hours offered in Nebraska is required during this period. The licensee must participate in at least 20 hours of continuing competency activities for each renewal period. All 20 hours may be from Content Area I with no more than five hours from Content Area II. Renewal of a license will be contingent upon the licensee fulfilling the continuing competency requirement and maintaining documentation for a possible audit. The Board does not pre-approve continuing education programs.
It is the licensee’s responsibility to attend or participate in continuing education activities which meet the guidelines pursuant to NAC 23-009.01B and NAC 23-009.01C. The Board retains final authority for acceptance of any educational activity submitted by the licensee to meet the continuing competency requirement.
CONTENT AREA I:
Anatomic and physiologic bases for the normal development and use of speech, language, hearing, and balance;
Physical bases and processes of the production and perception of speech, language, and hearing;
Linguistic and psycho-linguistic variables related to normal development and use of speech, language, and hearing;
Technological, biomedical, engineering, and instrumentation information which would enable expansion of knowledge in the basic communication processes;
Various types of disorders of communication, their manifestations, classification, and cause;
Evaluation skills, including procedures, techniques, and instrumentation for assessment;
Principles in habilitation and rehabilitation of communication disorders; and
Principles in evaluation and rehabilitation of balance and vestibular disorders.
CONTENT AREA II (must relate to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology)
Regulations and implementation of federal and/or state regulated programs;
Service delivery models;
Ethical practices;
Supervision issues related to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology;
Related disciplines which interface with delivery of audiology and speech-language pathology services; and
Reimbursement issues.
A continuing education activity, except home study and nationally recognized specialty certification examinations, will be acceptable when:
The courses or presentations are formally organized and planned instructional experiences that have a date, location, course title, number of contact hours, signed certificate of attendance, and are open to all licensees;
The objectives relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology or speech-language pathology;
The instructor has specialized experience or training to meet the objectives of the course; and
One hour of credit is awarded for each 60 minutes of attendance and a quarter hour will be awarded for each additional 15 minutes over 60 minutes. Credit will not be awarded for breaks or meals.
Acceptable Continuing Education Activities
The Board does not pre-approve continuing education programs but will accept as continuing education for renewal of a license the following continuing education activities:
Programs at State and National meetings which relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology or speech-language pathology e.g., a meeting of the Nebraska Speech-Language-Hearing Association and/or the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, or American Academy of Audiology. A licensee’s documentation must include the certificate of attendance, listing of individual presentations attended and program outline and/or objectives.
Poster sessions at State and National meetings which relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology or speech-language pathology. A licensee’s documentation must include the certificate of attendance, listing of individual poster sessions attended and program outline and/or objectives.
Formal education courses/presentations in which:
1. The courses or presentations are formally organized and planned instructional experiences that have a date, location, course title, number of contact hours, signed certificate of attendance, and are open to all licensees;
2. The objectives relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology; and
3. The instructor has specialized experience or training to meet the objectives of the course.
Accredited university sponsored courses relating to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology taken for college credit including internet courses. A licensee must provide documentation of successfully completing the course. A licensee’s documentation must include an official transcript and a program outline and/or objectives;
One academic semester credit hour is equal to 15 contact hours. Thus an approved three credit hour course would provide 45 contact hours of continuing education credit.
One academic quarter credit hour is equal to ten contact hours. Thus an approved three credit hour course would provide 30 contact hours continuing education credit.
Home study where the content of the home study activity relates to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology or speech- language pathology, e.g. videotapes, internet courses not for university credit, and/or correspondence courses. The program must have a testing mechanism scored by the named home study provider. A licensee’s documentation must include a certificate of completion, and a program outline and/or objectives. Licensees may complete a maximum of ten hours of continuing education requirements by home study each 24 month renewal period;
Participation in research or other scholarly activities that result in professional publication or acceptance for publication that relate to audiology or speech-language pathology. Five contact hours will be awarded for each publication.
Licensees may earn up to a maximum of ten contact hours of continuing education each 24 month renewal period for authorship, editorship, co-authorship, co-editorship, or all of these, of a juried publication relating to Audiology or speech-language pathology. A licensee’s documentation must include a copy of the final publication or verification of publication e.g., title, page and table of contents; and
Nationally recognized specialty certification examinations: A licensee will earn ten contact hours of continuing education each 24 month renewal period for successful completion of a nationally recognized specialty certification examination related to an area of advanced practice in the field of audiology or speech-language pathology. A licensee’s documentation must include a copy the certification.
One hour credit will be awarded for each hour of scientific presentation by a licensee acting as an essayist or a lecturer to licensed audiologists, speech-language pathologists, or other credentialed health care professionals if the program relates to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to audiology and speech-language pathology. A licensee may receive continuing education credit for only the initial presentation during a renewal period, with a maximum of four hours of continuing education for presentation in a 24 month renewal period. A licensee’s documentation must include the program brochure that includes the licensee’s name as presenter and the course outline and/or objectives.
Unacceptable Continuing Education
Continuing education credit will not be awarded for programs that do not relate to the theory or clinical application of theory pertaining to the practice of audiology and speech-language pathology.
Marketing and business communications and operations;
Courses which deal with personal self-improvement, human relations, financial gain, time management, or career options;
Courses designed for lay persons;
Teaching non-credentialed persons nor any preparation for same.
Courses less than 60 minutes in duration.
Participation in or attendance at case conferences, grand rounds, facility tours, e.g. manufacturing, education, medical, or informal presentations.
Documentation and Audit
At the time of renewal, each audiologist and speech-language pathologist will attest to having met the required hours. The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology will randomly audit a percentage of audiology and speech-language pathology renewals. If an audiologist or speech-language pathologist is notified that s/he is audited, he/she will need to submit to the Department a copy of the proof of attendance and program objectives or other required documentation for each continuing activity that s/he completed. Each audiologist or speech-language pathologist is responsible for:
Maintaining until the next renewal period, documentation of attendance at, or participation in, continuing education programs/activities. Documentation of attendance or participation must include the following;
Signed certificate; and
Course brochure or course outline; and/or
Other requested documentation required pursuant to 172 NAC 23-009.01B, items 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8.
Maintaining documentation of presentation of a continuing education program if the licensee is presenting a program. Documentation must include the following:
Course outline; and
Brochure of course; or
Statement of instructor’s qualification to teach the course, unless the qualifications are included in the brochure.
For renewal of a registration, all Communication Assistants must complete 10 contact hours of inservice training within the 1 year preceding the renewal period.
To request an address change, contact Sue Kopera Crumb at (402) 471-2299 or e-mail at susan.koperacrumb@nebraska.gov. If you wish to change your name on your Licensure record, you must mail a
written request with your signature notarized along with a copy of the legal document verifying name change to:
Licensure Unit
Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
PO Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
Duplicates: A duplicate large license or small license card may be requested at the time of initial licensure. A $10.00 fee, per document, is required.
Reissue: A large license and/or small license card may be reissued when the licensee requests: additional documents; replacement of original document(s) due to loss, mutilation or destruction; or replacement of document(s) due to a name change.
To request a reissued license, you must submit a
Licensure Unit
Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
PO Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
Rules and Regulations/Statutes
Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Information
The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology advises the Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health Licensure Unit on all issues related to the regulation of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Board member composition and length of terms follows:
Membership:
2 Audiologists
1 Speech-Language Pathologist
1 Public MemberLength of Term:
5 years, no more than 2 consecutive full 5-year terms.
Professional Requirements:
Been actively engaged in practice of his/her profession in the State of Nebraska, under a license issued in this state, for a period of 5 years just preceding his/her appointment.
Public Member:
- Be a resident of this state who has attained the age of majority;
- Represent the interests and viewpoints of consumers; and
- Not be a present or former member of a credentialed profession, an employee of a member of a credentialed profession, or an immediate family or household member of any person presently regulated by such board.
The Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology meets at least 1 time per year - see Board meeting Schedule for meeting dates and times. Meetings are open to the public, with the exception of investigational matters. Minutes of meetings are available here or by contacting Delores James at (402) 471-2299 or by e-mail at delores.james@nebraska.gov
Office Address:
Mailing Address
Physical Address
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services - Division of Public Health
Licensure Unit
PO Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986Nebraska State Office Building
301 Centennial Mall South
14th and M Streets
3rd Floor
Lincoln, NebraskaPhone: (402) 471-2299
Fax: (402) 471-3577
Office Hours:
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (central time)
Monday through FridayAudiology and Speech-Language Pathology and Communication Assistants Licensing /Registration Questions:
Sue Kopera-Crumb
Health Licensing Specialist
Phone: (402) 471-2299
e-mail susan.koperacrumb@nebraska.govAudiology and Speech-Language Pathology Scope of Practice, Continuing Education & Board Related Questions:
Delores James
Health Licensing Coordinator
Phone: (402) 471-2299
e-mail delores.james@nebraska.govAudiology and Speech-Language Pathology Scope of Practice Questions
Diane Hansmeyer
Administrator of the Office of Rehabilitation and Community Services
Phone: (402) 471-2299
e-mail diane.hansmeyer@nebraska.gov
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, Maryland 20852
Telephone Number (Toll-free, Voice or TTY):800 498-2071; (301) 897-5700
actioncenter@asha.org
www.asha.orgNational Council of State Boards of Examiners for Speech Language Pathology and Audiology
P. O. Box 326
Wellsburg, WV 26070
www.ncsb.netNebraska Speech-Language and Hearing Association (NSLHA)
455 South 11th Street, Suite A
Lincoln, NE 68508
Telephone Number (402) 476-9573
Fax Number: (402) 476-7740www.nebraska.gov/LISSearch/search.cgi
Educational Testing Service
Rosedale Road
Princeton, New Jersey 08541
Telephone Number: (609) 921-9000
Fax Number: (609) 734-5410
www.ets.org
Certification and Verification information can be obtained by checking the website at www.nebraska.gov/LISSearch/search.cgi
OR
To request either a certification or verification or your license to be sent to another state licensing agency, send your request in writing along with the proper fee to the our office. Checks should be made payable to DHHS/Licensure UnitCertification
Fee - $25.00
Certification includes:
Name
Profession
License number
Issuance date
Expiration date
School and date of graduation
Whether the license was granted by, education, endorsement or reciprocity
Examination information, if available
Whether disciplinary action has been taken against the license. If so, the type(s) and date(s) of the action will be included.
Administrator signature
SEAL of the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services
Verification
Fee - $5.00
Verification includes: written conformation as to whether a license or registration was valid at the time the request was made.
Name
Profession
License Number
Expiration Date
Department Staff Signature
A verification does not include the SEAL of the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services nor information relating to discipline, school, or examination.
The Licensee Assistance Program (LAP) is an assessment, education, referral, case management, and monitoring service designed to help licensees, certificate holders, and registrants of the State of Nebraska work through substance abuse/addiction problems.
The LAP services are free. However, in some cases treatment from a community resource agency may be needed. If further assistance is needed, the LAP Coordinator will help refer the Licensee to the most appropriate agency. When a treatment referral is made, those expenses become the responsibility of the Licensee.
This program was established by
LAP telephone number: (800) 851-2336 or (402) 354-8055. You may also visit their website at www.lapne.org.
How do I file a complaint? To file a complaint, see the Investigations Division web site: www.dhhs.ne.gov/reg/investi.htm
What activities must be reported by a licensee, certificate holder, or registrant? Every credentialed person who has first-hand knowledge of unlicensed, illegal or unethical activities is required to report (includes self-reporting) within 30 days of the occurrence. Failure to report may result in discipline. To view additional information relating to mandatory reporting, click on the options below:
Mandatory Reporting shall not apply:
to the spouse of the person,
to a practitioner who is providing treatment to such person in a practitioner-patient relationship concerning information obtained or discovered in the course of treatment unless the treating practitioner determines that the condition of the person may be of a nature which constitutes a danger to the public health and safety by the person's continued practice, or
when a credentialed person who is chemically impaired enters the Licensee Assistance Program authorized by
How is a complaint reviewed, and what is the disciplinary process? The following provides information relating to the complaint, investigative, and disciplinary process.
Investigations web site www.dhhs.ne.gov/reg/investi.htm
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