Who determines the assignment of tasks and the supervision needed for the Assistant?

The supervising licensee is responsible for determining the assignment of tasks and the level of supervision required for an assistant. This role is crucial in ensuring that the assistant is engaged in practices that are both appropriate and safe within their scope of work. The supervising licensee, typically a qualified speech-language pathologist, has the necessary training, certification, and experience to make informed decisions about the specific duties the assistant can undertake.

By delineating tasks based on the assistant’s skills and experience as well as the needs of the clients, the supervising licensee helps to ensure that services provided are effective and aligned with best practices. Additionally, they are accountable for the overall quality of care that the assistant delivers, which includes providing guidance, monitoring progress, and addressing any issues that may arise during client interactions.

Other roles mentioned, such as the healthcare team, the assistant’s peer, and the patient’s family, may contribute to the discussion around treatment planning and support. However, they do not have the authority or responsibility to assign tasks or determine the supervision needed for the assistant. Only the supervising licensee has the professional and legal responsibility to oversee the assistant's work in accordance with regulations and ethical standards.