Massachusetts Telepractice Requirements for Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists

The information below is collected from state licensure boards or regulatory agencies responsible for regulating the professions of audiology and/or speech-language pathology. The information is reviewed on an annual basis. Please be advised that laws, regulations, and policies may change at any time, so always check with your state for the most up-to-date information.

Telepractice State Licensure Board Requirements

The Massachusetts Board of Registration for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology allows for Providing Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Services by Electronic Means. The provider must hold a state license and adhere to the same requirements as in-person practice (check with the state or ASHA to learn about emergency or temporary provisions):

Before providing telepractice services, a speech-language pathologist or audiologist must obtain ten (10) hours of training in telepractice in classroom courses or via distance learning
The provider may begin a client relationship via telepractice following an in-person evaluation of the prospective client
Prior to initiating telepractice services, the provider must document whether the client has the necessary knowledge and skills to benefit from telepractice and obtain informed consent for the services (including informing the client or guardian of their right to refuse telepractice services)
The provider must facilitate training of the use of tele practice equipment (if necessary)

Reference: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure Board of Registration for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (2019), Policy: Providing Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Services by Electronic Means (Policy No. 2019-001) [PDF]

Temporary Practice for Out-of-State Providers

No permanent rules. Check with the state or ASHA to learn about emergency provisions.

Telesupervision State Licensure Board Laws and Regulations

This state has no laws or regulations for telesupervision of clinical fellows or student interns. The regulations indicate the possibility for telesupervision of support personnel through indirect supervision. Check with the state or ASHA to learn about emergency or temporary provisions.

Support Personnel

Permitted with indirect supervision.

Reference: 260 Mass. Code Regs. 10.0: Use and Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Assistants

Clinical Fellow

No regulations.

Student Intern

No regulations.

ASHA Guidance

Telepractice State Licensure

Obtain a license from the state in which you reside and verify the requirements from the state in which the patient/client resides, which may include in-state licensure. If a state has not established regulations on telepractice, then contact the licensure board for further guidance, and ask for written verification.
It is the responsibility of the clinician to review the regulations on the state licensure board website in their entirety and regularly for updates or changes.

Telesupervision

If a state has not established regulations on telesupervision, then contact the licensure board for further guidance and ask for written verification.

Reimbursement for Telepractice Services

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists should keep in mind that while a state may have passed telepractice reimbursement laws and/or regulations, this does not guarantee that payers will reimburse for these services. Learn more about considerations for audiologists and speech-language pathologists.