General
The purpose of continuing education (CE) is to ensure the highest quality professional care. The objectives are to improve and increase the ability to deliver the highest possible quality professional care and keep the professional abreast of current developments.
Requirements
Audiologists, hearing aid specialists, speech-language pathologists and speech-language pathology assistants must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education every three years within the following topics:
- One hour must be earned by taking and passing the jurisprudence examination.*
- At least one hour on infection control.
- Up to five hours of multicultural education aimed at removing barriers to access to care.
- At least 2 hours of health equity training as specified in WAC 246-12-800 through WAC 246-12-830.
- At least 25 hours relating to profession specific skills and competencies.
* Must be completed within the first year of licensure and can only count towards CE credits within the first CE cycle.
Visit WAC 246-828-510 to ensure you maintain compliance with CE requirements and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when my continuing education hours are due?
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You'll receive a notice on your renewal card when you're required to report continuing education hours. In addition, your due date is listed on Provider Credential Search.
- How do I attest to completing my continuing education hours?
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You must attest to meeting the requirements of WAC 246-828-510 every three years when you renew your credential. You may attest online if renewing online, or by signature if renewing by mail.
- Where do I find continuing education courses?
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Many employers offer in-service trainings that meet the requirements of WAC 246-828-510. Many profession-related companies, schools, and associations offer online education, webinars, in-person seminars, or offer courses as part of annual conventions or meetings.
- How do I know what courses are acceptable?
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The Board of Hearing and Speech doesn't pre-approve courses. Acceptable courses must be from the categories listed in WAC 246-828-510. Documentation requirements are listed for each category. You're required to have at least one hour of infection control education per three-year period.
- Where can I get one hour of infection control education?
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The Board of Hearing and Speech didn't outline specific courses that meet the infection control requirement. Any course that documents one hour of infection control meets the requirement.
- What happens if I'm audited?
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If you're audited, you'll receive a letter from the Department of Health. You must send documentation of all courses for the three-year continuing education cycle.
- How long do I have to keep proof of my continuing education courses?
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Per WAC 246-12 Part 7, you must keep documentation for four years.