Audiology, Speech-language Pathology Act Introduced

Government introduced legislation today, April 15, requiring more than 300 audiologists and speech-language pathologists to be members of a new self-regulatory body.

"Self-regulation will ensure that licensed audiologists and speech-language pathologists have, and work to maintain, the necessary qualifications and skills," said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine. "Nova Scotians will take comfort in knowing that there is an oversight body available as recourse if an audiologist or speech-language pathologist does not live up to their required standards of practice."

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are self-regulated in most other provinces in Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Newfoundland. This legislation will put Nova Scotia on par with these eight provinces.

The Speech and Hearing Association of Nova Scotia now represents most of these professionals. Once legislation is passed, the association would set up a professional regulatory body.

"The Speech and Hearing Association of Nova Scotia welcomes this legislation. The establishment of a self-regulatory body has been a priority for our members for many years. This legislation will protect the public by preventing anyone who does not possess the necessary certifications and qualifications from practicing," said Patricia Cleave, member of the Speech and Hearing Association of Nova Scotia and chair of the Licensure Committee.

The proposed Act will provide authority for the creation of a College of Audiologists and Speech-language Pathologists, as well as authority for registration, title protection, scope of practice, complaints and disciplinary procedures.