SB 451

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act. Makes changes in the definition of "the practice of audiology". Provides that the Act does not prohibit the performance of balance testing (rather than vestibular function testing) by an appropriately trained person under the supervision of a physician licensed to practice medicine in all its branches. Provides that the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has the power to discipline the supervisor of a graduate speech-language pathology student for the student's violation of the Act. Provides that the Secretary of Financial and Professional Regulation shall give consideration to the recommendations of the Illinois Academy of Audiology in making appointments to the Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Removes the requirement that a graduate student enrolled in a program of audiology be a full-time student in order to engage in the dispensing of hearing instruments as part of the program without a license under the Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning the qualifications for licenses to practice speech-language pathology and audiology. Effective immediately.