This petition is a proposal for a beneficial revision to our state’s speech-language pathologist (SLP) language to improve clarity around requirements for SLP licensure that will help protect consumers by ensuring that all SLPs are meeting clearly defined standards.  Our goal is to increase access to more providers in the state of Michigan to better serve clients and families, by changing the language in Michigan Medicaid regulations.

ASHA claims to be a voluntary association; however, it is not voluntary in the state of Michigan.  Currently, Michigan’s licensure standards contain language that emphasizes the requirement of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) as a necessary qualification for potential SLP licensees.  This requirement is harmful to SLPs across the state, as state law requires CCCs in order to bill Medicaid; thus limiting access to providers available.

Michigan is one of 11 states that have this language, while 39 of our 50 states do not.  Changing the language in MI state law would allow SLPs to bill Medicaid with a MI state license, as opposed to a state license and our CCCs.  This change not only benefits SLPs, but would also positively affect our communities access to care.