To whom should Assistants report any workplace conduct that appears unethical or illegal?

Reporting any workplace conduct that seems unethical or illegal is primarily the responsibility of the assistant to their supervising speech-language pathologist. The supervising speech-language pathologist has the authority and responsibility to handle such matters appropriately. This ensures that any concerns are addressed at the correct organizational level, allowing for an appropriate investigation and response. The supervising professional is trained to understand both the ethical guidelines and legal implications of such conduct. They can determine the best course of action, which may involve reporting to higher authorities or other departments if necessary.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not follow the established chain of command typically found in workplace settings, especially in healthcare and educational environments. For example, reporting directly to local authorities might bypass internal protocols that are designed to manage these situations effectively. Similarly, while involving the HR department may also be appropriate in certain situations, it is generally best for the assistant to first communicate with their direct supervisor to ensure that the concern is escalated correctly. Reporting concerns solely to a patient does not align with proper process and could violate confidentiality and professionalism in the clinical setting.