Fix SLP

New York Early Intervention in Crisis Nov 18, 2024

In this urgent and eye-opening episode of the Fix SLP Podcast, Dr. Jeanette Benigas welcomes guests Jamie (Instagram: @straightupslp) and Lacey, two passionate advocates, and providers in New York’s Early Intervention (EI) system. Together, they expose critical failures in the state’s newly launched EI Hub platform—a case management and billing system riddled with technical issues, including non-functional billing, workflow disruptions, and alarming HIPAA and FERPA violations.

Key topics include:

The devastating impact of the EI Hub's failure on providers and families, with providers unable to bill for services and facing financial insecurity.
The severe privacy breaches, allowing access to sensitive information across state lines, violating federal laws, and undermining trust in the system.
Grassroots efforts to raise awareness, including contacting state representatives, the Attorney General, and pursuing class action lawsuits.

Listeners will find resources and call to action at www.fixslp.com to join the fight for immediate change. Share this episode widely to support the providers and families who are directly affected by this crisis. Together, we can fix what’s broken.

Catch this critical episode and help amplify the voices calling for reform!
Check the Save EI Now website for the latest developments.

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Investigating the Invoice: ASHA Fees for SLPs Nov 11, 2024

In this episode, co-hosts Preston Lewis, MA/SLP, and Elizabeth Nielsen, MA/SLP, continue the discussion on the impact of ASHA's membership and certification costs, examining alternative paths for SLPs and exploring ways clinicians can take ownership of their professional journey. They focus on key challenges within the field, such as certification, licensure, and autonomy. The episode also celebrates an advocacy win in Michigan that could positively impact hospital-based clinicians and address ongoing efforts in Delaware to prevent restrictive licensure requirements.

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Navigating ASHA’s Fees and Membership: Your Options Explained Nov 04, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, announced that ASHA has responded to Fix SLP’s petition to amend its bylaws, noting a delay in the response despite the petition being received before the last board meeting. They shared Fix SLP's next steps and highlighted the challenges SLPs face with ASHA’s membership fees, emphasizing the need for better communication and transparency. Preston and Jeanette also reviewed ASHA’s membership options, explaining each in detail, and outlined practical steps for clinicians considering separation from ASHA, including formal resignation through ASHA’s resigned affidavit or adjusting renewal options to exclude membership fees.

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From Fees to Freedom: Changing the Continuing Ed Landscape for SLPs Oct 28, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Brooke Richardson, MS, SLP, break down the complexities of continuing education requirements in speech-language pathology, focusing on the costs, challenges, and the need for broader professional development choices with fewer restrictions for clinicians. Brooke, an ASHA CE provider, shares her insights into the rising financial burden of maintaining ASHA Approved CEU status, with fees set to increase to $1125 annually. Together, they explore why ASHA transparency is crucial and discuss how these growing costs affect small CEU providers and clinicians. They discuss the push for state licensing boards to accept all related professional development hours instead, promoting better access to high-quality, affordable education.

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Join the SLP Revolution: Free CE Tracker Unveiled Oct 24, 2024

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jeanette Benigas introduces Darla Torkelsen, the owner of Speech Therapy PD, to discuss an exciting new resource for SLPs. The duo talks about the new free CE Tracker, a tool designed to track professional development hours (PHDs) and continuing education units (CEUs), simplifying record-keeping for SLPs. Darla explains how the CE Tracker has been made accessible to everyone, detailing its ease of use, including uploading certificates from outside sources and generating comprehensive PDF transcript reports.

Tune in to hear how this innovative tool can help you leave the other guys and streamline your CE tracking process for free!

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Monetizing Passion: Can You Offer Quality Without ASHA? Oct 21, 2024

In this episode of the Fix SLP podcast, host Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP dives into an insightful conversation with Lindsey Hokel, MS/SLP from Rock the R Speech. They discuss the complexities of navigating professional development in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, focusing on the challenges of providing quality continuing education while avoiding the expensive process of becoming an ASHA Approved CEU provider. Lindsey shares her decision to offer Professional Development Hours (PDHs) instead of ASHA Approved CEUs and the impact this has had on her business. The episode also covers the growing grassroots movement of Fix SLP, advocating for autonomy and transparency within the profession, and provides information on state CEU requirements and the efforts to improve state requirements to allow for any profession related PDHs. If you're an SLP seeking alternative PDH opportunities or interested in changing the field for the better, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. Tune in to learn more about one of Fix SLP’s missions, Lindsey’s innovative work with Rock the R, and how you can get involved in the movement for change.

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Small Business vs. Big Players: The Real Cost of Offering ASHA Approved CEUs Oct 16, 2024

In this episode of the Fix SLP podcast, Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, dive deep into the world of continuing education with special guest Dr. Meredith Harold, SLP, from The Informed SLP. They discuss the complexities behind ASHA Approved CEUs, the challenges small businesses face in the PDH/CEU landscape, and new resources for SLPs seeking more autonomy in their professional development. Plus, they explore how informed choices can shape the future of the field. Tune in to learn how to navigate the CEU process and why it's time for change in the SLP world.

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Respect the Redirect: Ianessa Humbert’s Journey to Autonomy in SLP Oct 07, 2024

Dr. Ianessa Humbert, a renowned swallowologist, shares her journey from academia to founding Swallowing Wellness, a Maryland-based clinic focused on swallowing disorders. Despite facing an ethics complaint from ASHA and needing to retake the Praxis, she successfully navigated the Maryland licensing process without reinstating her CCC. Dr. Humbert emphasized the importance of autonomy in SLP practice and the challenges of credentialing without ASHA certification. She highlights her clinic's innovative approach and touches on the broader implications of SLP autonomy and the potential for private practice to drive systemic change.

Check out https://www.swallowingwellness.com/ for a closer look at what Dr. Humbert is doing.

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The Petition Powerhouse: Fix SLP's Bold Push for ASHA Transparency Sep 30, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, discuss the recent petition submitted to ASHA, which aims to push for financial transparency and fair pricing of the Certificate of Clinical Competency (CCC). They share behind-the-scenes challenges in gathering thousands of signatures and highlight the growing impact of Fix SLP across the U.S. They also reflect on Fix SLP's first year of achievements and share goals for continued grassroots efforts in the coming year to further reforms in speech-language pathology.

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We Won't Take No for an Answer Jul 01, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, welcome Zane Rankin, MS/SLP, and Sierra Creason for an inspiring episode. Zane shares his groundbreaking journey as the FIRST SLP in Arkansas credentialed for billing without the CCC. Despite facing medical retirement and discovering his CCC was unceremoniously stripped by ASHA, Zane found a way back with the support of Sierra and the Wolf Wellness Center. Don’t miss this heartwarming story of resilience and support that will leave you feeling uplifted!

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Let's Talk Buildings and Assets Jun 24, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas talks with Elizabeth Nielsen, MA/SLP Fix SLP's content coordinator, about the information she uncovered while looking at ASHA's financial reports and the questions she started to have about ASHA's land, office building, and rentals. ASHA's lack of financial transparency has left clinicians speculating where the money goes and why the dues cost has increased. In this episode, the pair discuss what is known for sure, what isn't known at all, and potential solutions to the problem of a multi-million dollar building that cannot be leased and doesn't appear to be occupied much by ASHA.

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Swapping Seats: Jeanette Takes the Hot Seat Jun 17, 2024

Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, hosts to learn more about Dr. Jeanette Benigas. Jeanette shares her experiences as an SLP and a parent, highlighting the challenges of balancing work and personal life. For the first time on air, she also shares about her current employment. She emphasizes the importance of support systems and prioritizing personal well-being to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Jeanette also shares her perspectives on the field of SLP, including the importance of patient-centered care, personal connection, and advocacy.

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State Advocacy Updates Jun 03, 2024

SLP advocates from Arkansas, North Carolina, Michigan, and Nebraska join host Dr. Jeanette Benigas. They all advocate for removing the CCC and ASHA verbiage from their states' billing requirements for full professional autonomy. They face challenges with Medicaid billing and regulatory issues and lead teams to address these through legislative changes and communication with state representatives. No matter where they are in the process, they all emphasize the importance of professional autonomy. Be prepared to be inspired!

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Therapists for Change May 28, 2024

Hosts Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, welcome Tiffany Moniz. MA/SLP, cofounder of the FB group, USA Based OT, PT, & SLP Therapists United for Change to discuss the pressing ethical challenges that clinicians often face in corporate settings, such as the burdens of prior authorization, the importance of clinical autonomy, and the ethical dilemmas that many professionals encounter daily. The conversation emphasizes the urgency of policy reforms, the necessity of legal resources, and the power of public awareness in protecting our profession.

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I'm Not Dropping the CCC, and Here's Why May 20, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas welcomes Dr. AC Goldberg to discuss his nonprofit, CREDIT Institute, which aims to advance healthcare and higher education equity. They explore their differing views on maintaining the CCC and engaging with ASHA, highlighting ASHA's mixed impact on marginalized professionals. AC acknowledges ASHA's role in advocating for transgender professionals and promoting DEI while also recognizing its flaws and high costs. They emphasize the need for informed consumerism, support for ASHA's potential, and the importance of empowering minoritized voices within the profession.

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State by State: COLORADO May 16, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas talks with Lacy Helms, MA, CCC/SLP, President of the Colorado Speech Language and Hearing Association (CSHA), about CSHA's initiatives, including advocating at the state Capitol and providing resources for state clinicians to stay informed and engaged. They discuss the impact of CSHA's advocacy efforts on Medicaid policies and the current challenges faced in obtaining SLPA certification. With membership benefits such as CEUs and networking opportunities, clinicians have the ability to actively shape the future of speech therapy in Colorado.

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Fix SLP: Crushing Myths, Exposing Truths, and the Case for Transparency May 13, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and cohost Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, share updates on advocacy efforts in Michigan, Nebraska, Colorado, and more. They acknowledge the positive aspects of ASHA advocacy but also critique its transparency regarding revenue from the CCC vs. actual membership dues. This candid discussion underscores the urgency of reform within professional associations and its impact on affordability for clinicians.

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Fighting For My Voice May 06, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas spends time with Jordan LeVan, chatting about his story as a person with childhood apraxia of speech, his experiences with speech therapy, and his efforts to make sure every child is heard and accepted. He is a fierce advocate as the author of multiple children's books, an IEP advocate, founder, and president of the 501c3, The Apraxia Foundation: Hearing All Voices, and the face behind the exploding social media platform @fightingformyvoice, where he hopes to inspire everyone to be their true, authentic selves.

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Singing ASHA's Praises? Apr 29, 2024

The Singing SLP, Kevin Simmons, MS/SLP, joins Dr. Jeanette Benigas to share his journey from a graduate student to using his musical talents to make learning and therapy more engaging for his clients. He talks about his role as a sensory barber, transforming haircut experiences for children with sensory sensitivities. Kevin and Jeanette unravel the myths surrounding the CCC and the fears students and new graduates have. They share personal stories, and challenge the status quo, urging better education and transparency in the field.

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Fixers in the News: Time to Tell Our Story Apr 22, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and guest host Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, talk with Elizabeth Nielsen, MA/SLP from Tiny Voice Therapy who shares her journey integrating hippotherapy into her practice near Chicago. She's also raising awareness about SLP struggles, recently sharing her story and the story of many Fearless Fixers with her local NPR station (read the story here). Join us in this call to action and advocate for our profession. Share your story, and reach out to local news networks and NPR stations. Let's raise our voices for change!

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Our Secret Weapon: Part 2 Apr 15, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, discuss critical issues in the SLP community. They review systemic challenges, citing Elizabeth Nielsen MA/SLP's NPR story, and critique ASHA's influence on licensure. They advocate for grassroots policy influence and discuss how inflation affects SLP salaries and operations. Personal anecdotes about their educational and professional experiences, including discrimination and the importance of diversity, enrich the discussion, providing a broad view of the current state and future of the SLP field.

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Our Secret Weapon: Part 1 Apr 08, 2024

Guest host Preston Lewis, MS/SLP joins Dr. Jeanette Benigas to discuss the power of state-level advocacy, the importance of engaging with rehab companies, and the evolving role of SLPs in addressing diverse patient needs. With insights into state membership association dynamics and a special update about impactful initiatives in Michigan, this episode illuminates the transformative potential of SLP advocacy efforts.

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State by State: MONTANA Apr 04, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas talks with Shelby Midboe, MS, CCC/SLP, past president of the Montana Speech-Language-Hearing Association (MSHA), about Montana's specific challenges including the shortage of SLPs. They discuss the legislative advocacy the association takes on, and their efforts to increase connection throughout the Montana SLP and AuD communities.

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Access to Care in Michigan Mar 26, 2024

Guest hosts Mikayla Treynor, MA, CCC/SLP and Alexa Chapman MA, CCC/SLP join Dr. Jeanette Benigas to discuss their efforts at the state level to eliminate the CCC requirement to Medicaid billing. Find out why access to care is so important to them and what they have been doing about it.

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State by State: TEXAS Mar 22, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas talks with Robyn Martin, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-F, past president of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA), about the perks of TSHA membership, including free CEU webinars, a CE registry, and discounted advanced courses. She highlights TSHA's commitment to member feedback and financial sustainability, the association’s advocacy efforts, and how members are kept informed about legislative developments. Robyn emphasizes that joining TSHA means becoming part of a dynamic community dedicated to advancing speech-language pathology and audiology, offering resources, support, and opportunities for growth and development.

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The CCC Dilemma: Making Informed Decisions as Students and CFs Mar 19, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas addresses the evolving landscape of Fix SLP post-co-host Megan Berg's departure, reinforcing the podcast's commitment to supporting SLPs through transitional and challenging times with information to support grassroots movements in each state. Jeanette also explores the hurdles students and CFs face surrounding the CCC by debunking common misconceptions about the certification process and evaluating alternative pathways and systemic changes within the profession. Why do graduate programs place so much importance on the CCC? Should a recent graduate even participate in the CFY?
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Meet the Most Fearless of Fixers Feb 26, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg speak with ASHA Fellow, Dr. Angela Loavenbruck who has served on many ASHA committees and also served on ASHA’s board as Vice President of Standards. Dr. Loavenbruck was refused membership and accused of violating the ASHA Code of Ethics when she dropped her CCC in the early 2000’s. She has lived happily ever after since that time. Fix SLP certainly didn’t start this revolutionary conversation, and if you want to hear the long history of ASHA’s battle to maintain their certification product at all costs to the profession, this is the episode for you.

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Other SLPs’ Pockets— Know Your Worth! Feb 23, 2024

We have a fresh episode of the Fix SLP podcast ready and waiting for you that will be released on Monday! In the meantime, enjoy this popular episode from our limited series podcast, Other SLPs’ Pockets, where we ask SLPs what they make. In this episode, we explore how we ditch our imposter syndrome, know our worth, and communicate that worth clearly to our employers. Join "Julie" and Ingrid Desormes (host of The Miseducation of the SLP podcast) as we tease apart these questions.

Link: Ingrid Desorme's podcast, The Miseducation of the SLP

THANK YOU to our sponsors for this podcast: The Entrepreneurial SLP and Pediatric Speech Sister
Find us on Instagram @otherslpspockets.

View crowd-sourced SLP salary data at SLP Careers.

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How Brionna’s Leadership Raised Medicaid Rates in Ohio Feb 20, 2024

Brionna Pickens, M.A., SLP joins Dr. Jeanette Benigas to share her journey of advocacy to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates in Ohio. Brionna discusses her efforts to address the longstanding issue of low Medicaid rates, which significantly impacted her private practice and access to care for families. She recounts her four-year journey of research, collaboration, and advocacy, culminating in a substantial increase in reimbursement rates for non-institutional providers in Ohio. Her story exemplifies the impact of individual commitment and collective action in effecting positive change in the field of SLP. Tune in to gain insights into Brionna's advocacy process, the importance of perseverance, and her vision for the future of the profession.

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Where Do We Go From Here? Feb 16, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the explosive growth of the Fix SLP platform and the plans to turn this movement into a crowd-sourced grassroots advocacy firm. Unions, non-profits, alternative associations are all discussed, as well as an invitation to everyone who finds this work valuable to consider becoming a Fix SLP sustaining partner.

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So ASHA Raised Their Rates Feb 08, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss ASHA’s recent announcement of an 11% increase in fees starting in 2025. Why did they do this? What do they spend their money on? How can we opt out of their coercive system and what actions can we take right now to make a difference? We cover it all! If you’d like your question to be answered on the podcast, leave us a voicemail at fixslp.com (click on quick links).

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Why Are SLPs So Afraid? Feb 02, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg speak with Dr. Ianessa Humbert about why SLP is trapped in a culture of fear. The episode centers around the intersectionality of gender, race, and institutions of control. In a field full of majority white women who would rather uphold a broken system than let it crumble at the risk of losing their own position of privilege, this episode is one you don’t want to miss if you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is this change taking so long?” or if you’ve ever liked our posts but not yet found the courage to join in the conversation or take action.

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State by State: OHIO Jan 29, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas chats with Taylor Hahn, M.A., CCC/SLP, executive board member of the Ohio Speech-Language-Hearing Association (OSLHA), about the association's impactful advocacy work. They cover legislative wins like Madeline's Law, focusing on hearing aid reimbursement rates, ongoing efforts for affordable continuing education, and support for the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact. Taylor stresses social media engagement and member support in sustaining advocacy. They also touch on OSHLA's future goals regarding finance, education, and membership growth and how yearly agendas are set. The episode wraps up with Jeanette joining OSLHA, highlighting the membership process and the importance of backing professional associations with action.

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What CEUs Do I Need? Jan 26, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg speak with Dr. Meredith Harold about the state of continuing education regulation in the field of SLP. Spoiler alert: ASHA CEUs aren’t required to maintain the CCC. What’s the difference between ASHA CEUs and ASHA-approved CEUs? Does ASHA vet courses for quality? Who can we trust to provide high quality CEUs? What is a professional development hour (PDH)? Do you actually need to pay for the ASHA CE Registry? Should the free market system regulate CEUs? What would that even look like? Join us and learn all about how to navigate lifelong learning in the form of CEUs.

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Global Series: AUSTRALIA Jan 19, 2024

Megan Berg speaks with Chantelle Hutchinson about the process for becoming a speech-language pathologist in Australia, discussing the ins and outs of Speech Pathology Australia’s Certified Practising Speech Pathologist program. The episode also covers international standards (or lack of international standards) and the risks posed to the profession when relying on certification products to regulate SLP standards across borders.

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It's About Autonomy, Not Control Jan 12, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the idea of trying to change the direction of ASHA by getting on the board of directors- a concept that has been brought up by SLPs on social media. The episode covers how systemic factors limit practicing clinicians, particularly those whose views do not align with ASHA’s, from successfully moving through the board’s nomination and election process. Megan and Jeanette and encourage SLPs to take action in areas where they do have control.

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State by State: IOWA Jan 10, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas speaks with Ashley Laudick M.A., CCC-SLP, the president of the Iowa Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Ashley delves into the association's successful endeavors safeguarding SLP billing codes in Iowa and sheds light on ongoing advocacy work, particularly concerning potential restructuring of the state’s licensing boards. They discuss the significance of member engagement, transparency, and the pivotal role of lobbyists in championing Iowa’s SLPs. Ashley underscores the importance of clinician awareness and support for the sustainability of state associations, emphasizing their crucial role in advocating for the profession and addressing Iowa-specific issues.

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Practice Analysis Paralysis Jan 06, 2024

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the ASHA SLP Practice Analysis, which serves as the evidence base for the CAA standards, the CCC standards, and the questions on the Praxis test. Is the practice analysis strong enough to hold up the entire field in these ways? Is it possible for SLP to evolve towards a competency-based model that adequately supports both instructors and students and protects consumers from lack of comprehensive training?

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12 Things We Wish for SLPs Dec 29, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg list their top 12 wishes for SLPs from rest to career fulfillment to never having to hear the words, “But I talk just fine!” ever again. Join us as we celebrate all of the positive possibilities for our field!

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The Certification Trap Dec 22, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg speak with MaryTherese Sabatino, an SLP currently completing her SLPD and pursuing a track in academia who has decided to drop ASHA membership. The episode touches on the history of the membership association, how it has grown in the last 20 years, and opinions around lack of transparency and accountability. Grassroots change at the level of state associations is discussed, along with competency-based training and evaluation.

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State by State: HAWAII Dec 20, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas introduces a guest, Kristina Fuentes, M,S. SLP, the President of the Hawaii Speech, Language, and Hearing Association, who shares about her clinical practice, background, and the association's initiatives. Kristina discusses advocacy efforts and achievements, such as securing licensure for clinical fellows, as well as future goals, including increasing social media presence and enhancing the quality of clinical services in Hawaii. The conversation also covers HSHA’s efforts to join the interstate compact as a means to expedite licensing, and ways clinicians can support the association, address concerns specific to Hawaii, and engage in communication with the board.

List of all of the links referenced in this show.

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What Makes an SLP an SLP? Dec 15, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg get clarification from CARF about if the CCC is required for SLPs working at CARF accredited facilities. They re-envision what it could look like to become a licensed SLP, exploring options of splitting the field into tracks, ditching a national exam, and focusing on competency checklists during grad school training.

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Professional Regulations Dec 09, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg talk to 12 different people from 12 different professions about how their field is regulated. The bottom line? There is no *one* way to regulate a field. There are lots of different ways! We explore if the current standard of ASHA attempting to quasi-regulate the field with their “optional” certification is working for SLPs.

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Who Regulates SLPs? Dec 02, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss how the field of speech-language pathology is regulated. Like most professions in the United States, SLP is regulated by the government, which creates rules and regulations to protect consumers. Governing bodies take recommendations from established institutions that position themselves as experts of the domain. SLP is in a unique position right now as it transitions to be fully supported by government regulation, shining a light on some of the redundancies we now face, including certification and licensure.

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Q/A Session Nov 27, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss your questions, including how this conversation applies to CFs, what ASHA does for SLPs, how to get off of the teacher pay scale, how the ASHA ethics board works, what people who are pro-CCC are saying, and why the BCS-S requires the CCC.

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Freedom Nov 17, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg talk to Kristin, an SLP who runs a private practice in Pennsylvania. Kristin discusses her decision to drop the CCC and expresses frustration with the requirement of holding the CCC to be a member of ASHA. The episode also features Courtney, who works in the schools and has never paid for the CCC as an SLP. Courtney discusses the need for changes in graduate programs, tracks for school and medical SLPs, and the need for more people to enter the field. Brooke Richardson also joins the conversation and talks about discussions happening on Pumble regarding changes to Medicaid rules in North Carolina, encouraging others to get involved locally. Megan and Jeanette emphasize the importance of individuals taking action to create change. (Summary generated by AI and edited by a human).

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You've Always Had the Power, My Dear Nov 10, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the newly established Slack community to connect SLPs at the state level and to foster communication about making grassroots changes. Conflicting regulations in New Jersey and Delaware are highlighted, as well as the overall poorly organized and difficult-to-navigate landscape of SLP regulation at the state level. Megan and Jeanette urge organizing within local state communities in order to clarify regulations related to licensing and Medicaid, particularly in light of the interstate compact rolling out in the next few years.

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We Are SLP Oct 25, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg question the value and necessity of ASHA certification, expressing frustration with its lack of competency guarantee and support for new clinicians. They also criticize the conflation of membership dues with CCC fees. They address pushback from academic SLPs. Additionally, they express frustration with the certification process and lack of evidence base behind the CCC. They discuss concerns about providing services in settings in which SLPs aren’t trained, advocating for speaking up to supervisors in such situations. The conversation covers topics such as imposter syndrome, the need for empowered SLPs to make decisions, and the importance of open conversations and multiple solutions in the field of SLP. Summary generated by AI and edited by a human.

Podcast episode mentioned in this conversation: Dare to Lead: Jodi-Ann Burey and Ruchika Tulshyan on Imposter Syndrome
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We Can't Unstart This Conversation Oct 19, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg do a quick check-in from a coffee shop in Ohio. They express gratitude for the feedback received regarding ASHA’s live Q&A session and mention plans to review the recording and share thoughts. They discuss the need to engage with state associations to remove CCC language from state regulations. They also discuss the lack of clinician voices in ASHA's decision-making process and the difficulty of volunteering for ASHA. They acknowledge the need for change and express a desire to improve the national association. Summary generated by AI and edited by a human.

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Systematic Incompetence Oct 13, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the challenges in the field of SLP and express gratitude for social media support. They encourage others to join their movement for improvement and request letters to be written to the ASHA board on the issue of the CCC. They discuss frustrations with academia and the limited influence of working SLPs in professional organizations. They emphasize the importance of measuring competency in the field. They advocate for support and fair compensation for adjunct professors and ethical practices in academia. They call for diversity, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in decision-making and criticize financial burdens placed on members. They discuss challenges in student placement and propose a national clearing house system. They touch on the importance of removing the CCC from state licensing board, insurance, and employment requirements. Summary generated by AI and edited by a human.

Speech Uncensored Podcast: How to Be Wrong the Right Way with Dr. Jordan Hazelwood.
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Certifications in the Courts Oct 06, 2023

Megan Berg and Brooke Richardson share their perspectives on the perceived significance of certifications in the SLP profession. The importance of asking questions, critical thinking, and engaging in open dialogue is emphasized. The Fix SLP platform is highlighted as a space for discussion and challenging the current system. The episode also covers three court cases and their outcomes relating to the current membership/certification issues that SLPs are grappling with. The conflict of interest of CCC certification for employment and insurance is discussed. (Summary generated by AI and edited by a human).

Links to court cases referenced in this episode:

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CALL TO ACTION: Write a letter to ASHA BOD Oct 04, 2023

In this impromptu brief episode, Jeanette and Megan outline how SLPs can take action by writing a letter to the ASHA Board of Directors. Find all the information and links you need at fixslp.com.

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Can I Drop the CCC? Oct 03, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the challenges and considerations of dropping the CCC in the field of SLP. Factors to consider include employer requirements, job security, state licensing board requirements, and the impact on supervising students. They also discuss the issue of certifications and the need for separate standards. They encourage SLPs to be informed and empowered to make their own choices and highlight the importance of sharing stories to reduce stigma. They call for ASHA to address issues such as pay and workload and the need for action on Medicare reimbursement cuts and lack of advocacy. The participants desire ASHA to listen and show support. The participants compared the relationship to that of authoritative parents and adult children, expressing the need for repair and mutual respect. The meeting focused on their concerns and hopes for change.

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7 Rumors About the CCC Sep 29, 2023

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Megan Berg discuss the challenges in the field of speech-language pathology and the Fix SLP platform they started in order to address these issues. They share personal stories about the difficulties they faced with certification and licensing requirements. They express frustration with the cost and maintenance of the CCC and the lack of clarity on its necessity. They stress the importance of locating specific rules and regulations in order to clarify rumors from facts. They address the issue of the diminishing dignity of SLPs, which leads to a lack of belonging and constant scrutiny. They believe resolving this issue will give SLPs a voice. They mention the importance of the SLP Data Initiative and encourage listeners to check it out.

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