Speech-Language Pathology Services

40.4 – Speech-Language Pathology Services (Rev. 111, Issued: 09-25-09; Effective Date: 07-07-08; Implementation Date: 10-26- 09) Services related to congenital speech difficulties, such as stuttering or lisping, are not covered. A qualified speech-language pathologist, as defined at 42CFR485.70(m), has the knowledge, training, and experience required to evaluate and reevaluate, as appropriate, a patient's level of function, determine whether a speech-language program could reasonably be expected to improve, restore, or compensate for lost function, and to recommend to the physician a plan of treatment. A qualified speech-language pathologist must evaluate and reevaluate the patient’s level of function to develop, in consultation with the physician as appropriate, the speech-language pathology plan of treatment. Speech-language pathology therapy services are covered CORF services if physical therapy services are the predominate rehabilitation services provided in the CORF.