Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) “The practice of speech and language pathology” means the application of principles, methods and procedures for the measurement, testing, diagnosis, prediction, counseling or instruction relating to the development and disorders of speech, voice or language or feeding and swallowing or other upper aerodigestive functions for the purpose of diagnosing, preventing, treating, ameliorating or modifying such disorders and conditions in individuals or groups of individuals, and includes screening individuals for hearing loss or middle ear pathology using otoacoustic emissions screening, screening tympanometry or conventional pure-tone air conduction methods, including otoscopic inspection. (2) “Licensed speech and language pathologist” means a person licensed under this chapter to practice speech and language pathology. “Speech and language pathologist” includes an individual who engages in the practice of speech and language pathology under any title or description of service incorporating the words speech pathologist, speech pathology, speech therapist, speech therapy, speech correction, speech correctionist, speech clinician, language pathologist, language pathology, aphasiologist, aphasia therapist, voice therapy, voice therapist, voice pathologist, phoniatrist, communication disorder specialist, communication specialist or any similar titles or description of services. (3) “Commissioner” means the Commissioner of Public Health. (4) “Department” means the Department of Public Health.