News & Press

WSHA News, Legislative Updates, Other News, and Student Spotlight

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  • 12 Feb 2026 7:10 AM | Anonymous

    ASHA is aware of significant interest and concern about CPT® code 92507. In response to the questions we have received from members, we are providing additional context about the coding and valuation process. As the professional association representing speech-language pathologists (SLPs), ASHA’s role is to advocate for the profession within the established American Medical Association (AMA) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) processes, including required confidentiality provisions [PDF].

    This page has been updated to address members’ questions and to explain why the review is occurring, how the process works, and what information can be shared at this stage. ASHA is committed to transparency and will continue to share the most accurate, verified information available as it is released publicly.

    Visit the ASHA website for more information.


  • 11 Feb 2026 7:07 AM | Anonymous

    We are pleased to share that the audiology scope modernization bill, AB 820/SB 860 has officially passed out of the Senate Health Committee! This is an important milestone in the legislative process that reflects the strong advocacy efforts of our members and partners.

    The bill is now awaiting scheduling for a vote before both the full Assembly and Senate. Timing is critical. Legislative leadership determines when bills are brought forward for a vote, and demonstrating broad support now can help ensure AB 820/SB 860 continue moving forward.

    Your voice matters, especially at this stage.

    We are asking all WSHA members to:

    • Contact your State Senator and Representative.
    • Express your support for AB 820/SB 860.
    • Encourage them to support the bill when it comes to the floor for a vote.

    Personal messages from constituents are one of the most effective ways to influence legislators. Even a short email makes a difference.

    Your voice matters, and WSHA is here to support you every step of the way!

    Find Your Legislator: https://maps.legis.wisconsin.gov/?lat=&lon=&address=

    Suggested email:

    Dear Senator/Representative [Last Name],

    I am writing as a constituent and a member of the Wisconsin Speech-Language-Audiology Association to express my strong support for AB 820/SB 860.

    This bill will modernize the scope of practice for audiologists and improve access to care. It will also help attract and retain qualified audiologists in our state, ensuring that all Wisconsinites can receive high-quality care in their own communities. Access to hearing healthcare is essential to communication, education, employment, and overall health. AB 820/SB 860 removes outdated barriers and strengthens our ability to serve patients safely and effectively.

    I respectfully urge you to support AB 820/SB 860 when it comes before you for a vote.

    Thank you for your time, consideration, and service to our state.

    Sincerely,

    [Your name]
    [Credentials]
    [City, WI]

    Find Your Legislator: https://maps.legis.wisconsin.gov/?lat=&lon=&address=


  • 8 Feb 2026 10:38 AM | Anonymous

    Please contact your state legislators today and ask them to support Universal Licensure for SLPs!

    Find Your Senator and Representative: https://maps.legis.wisconsin.gov/?lat=&lon=&address=

    Suggested email:

    Hello, my name is ____________ and I am a speech-language pathologist residing in your district. I am contacting you today to ask that you support legislation to modernize the licensure process for speech-language pathologists. Unlike physical therapists and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists must navigate multiple licensure pathways depending on our work setting. Decades ago this made some sense because prospective SLPs trained for a specific practice track - either school or healthcare - but that is no longer the case. Graduate programs in speech-language pathology train for competence across settings and demographics, preparing SLPs with comprehensive skill and knowledge. LRB 5615 will streamline the current licensure process for SLPs and maintain the strong education, training and consumer protections as defined in Chapter 459. This bill supports me, my profession and my patients and is supported by the Wisconsin Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Association. Thank you.


  • 4 Feb 2026 2:47 PM | Anonymous

    WSHA is pleased to announce this year's award recipients! Please join us in celebrating their accomplishments at the Awards Ceremony held during the 2026 WSHA Annual Convention, February 5-6 at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee!

    Student Leadership Award
    Lily Leicht

    Student Mentor Award
    Amanda Pagel, MS, CCC-SLP

    Audiologist of the Year
    Amanda Mravec, AuD, CCC-A

    SLP of the Year
    Lea Gowey, MS, CCC-SLP

    WSHA Salutes Outstanding Service
    Alyson Eith, MS, CCC-SLP

    WSHA Salutes Outstanding Service
    Melanie Buhr-Lawler, AuD, CCC-A

    Honors of the Association
    Patricia (Trici) Schraeder, MS, CCC-SLP

    President's Award
    Anastasia Grindle, AuD, CCC-A
    Rachel Lee, AuD, CCC-A

  • 29 Jan 2026 6:32 PM | Anonymous

    On Thursday, January 29, 2026, WSHA testified before the Senate in support of the amended version of the audiology scope modernization bill AB 820/SB 860, and we are encouraged by how well the hearing went.

    Over the past several weeks, and after many discussions with all stakeholders, our organization has worked to provide feedback and offer recommendations intended to strengthen the bill.

    We believe it represents good policy, improves clarity for patients and providers alike, and reflects the kind of collaborative lawmaking process that serves Wisconsin well.

    One of the most impactful elements of the hearing was the involvement of our students. Legislators repeatedly commented on how meaningful it was to hear directly from students and to see them actively engaged in the legislative process. Their presence, insight, and professionalism were noticed and appreciated, and lawmakers expressed genuine excitement about the next generation stepping into advocacy and leadership roles.

    We believe the bill is in a strong place following a collaborative and productive effort among key stakeholders. This progress reflects thoughtful dialogue, compromise, and a shared commitment to advancing audiology in a way that best serves patients and professionals.

    We look forward to sharing more details with you. Be sure to join us at convention, where we’ll take a deep dive into the legislation, the amendments, and the extensive advocacy work that went into shaping this measure.


  • 4 Dec 2025 2:56 PM | Anonymous

    The latest ForwardHealth Update is available here.

  • 13 Oct 2025 12:39 PM | Anonymous

    We're excited to share positive updates from our recent advocacy efforts with the Wisconsin Hearing and Speech Examining Board. 

    At its latest meeting, the Board approved a motion to streamline the process for audiologists to waive the practical exam for licensure. This change reduces unnecessary administrative barriers for qualified audiologists seeking licensure in our state, while maintaining the highest professional standards.

    In addition, we advocated for patient safety in cerumen management practices. The Board approved a motion to remove water irrigation as an approved method for hearing instrument specialists when performing cerumen removal. This important change helps minimize the risk of ear injury, particularly for patients with undiagnosed tympanic membrane perforations or other contraindications for irrigation. 

    These actions represent meaningful progress in protecting patients and supporting our profession. Thank you to all members who have contributed to these advocacy efforts - your engagement continues to make a difference. 


  • 9 Sep 2025 7:29 AM | Anonymous

    This year the WSHA Foundation, Inc. will award $20,000 in scholarships!

    Here are the recipients:

    The Vicki Lord Larson and James R. Larson Research Grant - $3,000.00 Award to:

    University of Wisconsin - Madison 

        Denis Michael Rudisch "impacts of Cardiovasculare and Targeted Vocal Exercise on Early Vocal Deficits and Laryngeal Muscle Pathology in a Transgenenic Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease."

    University of Wisconsin - Madison 

        Claudia Schabes "Non-generative Language Use in Boys with Autism and Fragile X and How It Relates to Broader Morphasyntactic and Cognitive Behavioral Abilities."

    Jack Kile Scholarship - $2,000.00 to: 

        University of Wisconsin-Madison, Alexis Thompson

    Risa Mari Otto Scholarship - $3,000.00 to: 

        Marquette University, Megan Bargiel

    The Judith H. and David J. Ward Scholarship - $2,000.00 to: 

        Marquette University, Carolyn Nelson

    Nancy McKinley Scholarship - $2,000.00 to:

        Marquette University,  Stephanie Ocampo

    Friends of WSHA Foundation Scholarship - $2,500.00 to:

        University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire,  Katelyn Kukuk

    WSHA Foundation, Inc. Heart of Healthcare Scholarship - $2,500.00 to:

        University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Katie Meisner


    CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THESE STELLAR STUDENTS AND TO THE FACULTY WHO SUPPORT AND AID THEM AS THEY BECOME WONDERFUL PROFESSIONALS IN OUR FIELDS!


  • 30 Jul 2025 7:00 AM | Anonymous

    We are elated to let you know that the advocacy efforts of ASHA, WSHA, and 36 other states have worked! CMS contacted ASHA indicating it has reversed their decision on CF's billing Medicare Part B.  

    From ASHA to State Leaders this morning: 

    We’re pleased to share important news from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). As of July 28, 2025, CMS has confirmed that it is reversing its previous guidance regarding the qualifications of provisional licensees, including clinical fellows (CFs), to now align with state licensure requirements. This allows individuals holding provisional licenses to provide services to Medicare beneficiaries—provided they meet their respective state’s licensure requirements. Thank you for your advocacy and efforts in helping to make this outcome possible.

    See Advocacy News: CMS Reverses Its Interpretation of a Qualified SLP: Clinical Fellows Cleared to Bill Medicare


  • 10 Jul 2025 3:39 AM | Anonymous

    The American Academy of Audiology (AAA), Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) have issued a formal response to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) rebutting its recent letter to Congress [PDF] opposing the Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act (S.1996/H.R.2757) and asking for a meeting to discuss the bill.

    The response from the presidents of the three audiology groups disputes AAO-HNS’s mischaracterization of the legislation and the role of audiologists in providing hearing and balance care. The audiology organizations describe the AAO-HNS letter, which was sent to Congress on June 3, as “false, misleading, and inaccurate,” and in direct contradiction to evidence-based clinical practice and federal data.

    The letter from the audiology groups [PDF] highlights the following:

    • Audiologists are doctoral-level, licensed providers authorized in all states to practice independently. They provide direct, safe, and effective care to patients across the lifespan.
    • The Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act (MAAIA) does not alter the scope of practice or designate audiologists as physicians. Instead, it removes unnecessary physician order requirements and restrictions on reimbursement that unfairly penalize seniors, aligning with existing practices in Medicare Advantage and other programs and payers.
    • AAO-HNS’s own clinical guidelines recognize the vital and independent role audiologists play in diagnosing and treating a range of hearing and balance conditions.
    • Audiologists and the physicians that AAO-HNS represents work collaboratively and often in an integrated manner as part of a holistic care team.

    AAA, ADA, and ASHA have requested a meeting with AAO-HNS to clarify misunderstandings and reinforce a shared commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care for individuals of all ages who need care that audiologists are licensed to provide.

    TAKE ACTION: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association | Tell Congress to Improve Medicare Beneficiary Access to Audiology Services


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