Guidelines for the delivery of speech-language pathology and audiology services in home care

Due to changing demographics, consumer preference, and priorities of the total health care delivery system, home care services are increasingly vital to the safety, well-being, and quality of life of many people. Consequently, the number of persons who need home-based speech-language pathology and audiology services is increasing. These guidelines cover the professional service components and related aspects of the home care model. It is ASHA's position that home-based speech-language pathology and audiology services should be conducted by certified (and licensed where applicable) speech-language pathologists and audiologists, or by individuals who meet the educational requirements for certification and are receiving the supervised experience required for certification (Asha, 1981). These guidelines have been formulated to assist the speech-language pathologist and audiologist providing services in the unique environment of the home. The intent of these guidelines is to facilitate integration of services, cost-effectiveness and quality of client care.