I am a licensed SLP and resident in Virginia, and I am writing in support of the removal of 18VAC30-21-60(A)(2)(c). Moving forward with conveying full SLP licensure in Virginia to those who earn a Master’s degree in speech-language pathology/communication disorders and pass the Praxis is the next step in aligning the profession with current needs.

SLPs who have surpassed these two hurdles (which include acquiring a multitude of clinical care hours with a diverse patient base) are well-prepared for the next step of entering the workforce to provide quality care to patients in need. Requiring an on-paper mentorship, the way it is set up now, is not conducive to improving quality of care, nor growth of the clinician’s skills. Removing mandated mentorship will allow for a better balance between providing quality patient care, and encouraging the seeking out of new information for the purpose of providing quality care.

To ensure this, I support extending the current continuing education requirements that exist for all license renewals after the initial renewal, to also include SLPs within their first year of licensure/first renewal. This is a win-win solution to increase quality and availability of care for patients overall.

Virginia must not be afraid to do something different, and instead must be willing to turn the tide when the time is right.

Thank you,

Kathleen Wido, MS Ed., CCC-SLP