A scope of practice defines the permissible activities for members of various healthcare professions. Scope of practice documents/guidelines are formulated by a wide variety of healthcare-related organizations. Additionally, scope of practice guidelines are formulated by state licensing boards which define permissible activities in specific jurisdictions. Scope of practice guidelines from professional organizations do not supersede existing state licensure laws or affect the interpretation or implementation of such laws. It may serve, however, as a model for the development or modification of licensure laws.
Scope of practice guidelines in Audiology are formulated in order to: (a) describe the services offered by qualified Audiologists as primary service providers, case managers, and/or members of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary teams; (b) serve as a reference for health care, education, and other professionals, and for consumers, members of the general public, and policy makers concerned with legislation, regulation, licensure, and third-party reimbursement; and (c) inform members of professional organization (e.g., ASHA and AAA) along with students of the activities for which certification in Audiology is required. Access the scope of practice guidelines promulgated by ASHA and AAA can be accessed on each organization's website.