1111 Dept of Consumer Affairs, Reg Bds, Bur
Program Descriptions

1185 - SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY AND HEARING AID DISPENSERS BOARD

The Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board (Board) licenses and regulates Speech-Language Pathologists, Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers, along with other personnel registered to assist in the delivery of speech-language pathology, audiology, and hearing aid dispensing services. Thousands of California citizens experience congenital or acquired speech, language, hearing, swallowing and balance disorders. The Board protects consumers by requiring adherence to statutes and regulations designed to ensure the qualifications and competency of licensed providers, and further protects hearing-impaired consumers by informing them of their legal rights and obligations when purchasing or returning hearing aids. In addition to ensuring licensing requirements are met, the Board oversees a continuing professional development program to maintain clinical relevance. The Board is also responsible for protecting consumers from unlicensed, incompetent and unethical practitioners by investigating complaints regarding possible violations of the laws and regulations.