Sec. 10.40.01.06. Speech Impairment

A. An applicant who claims a speech impairment shall submit a written request to the Board:

(1) With the applicant's initial licensure application; or

(2) Within 1 year of development of the impairment.

B. The Board retains the right to waive the 1-year time limit.

C. An applicant may claim a speech impairment only if:

(1) A speech impairment exists; and

(2) The Board:

(a) Was properly notified of the impairment at the time of initial licensure; or

(b) Determines that a medical or surgical event created the impairment after licensure.

D. If an applicant has a properly claimed and documented speech impairment, the Board may grant or renew a license only if the applicant is able to effectively communicate with health care providers and patients.

E. The Board recognizes the following as proof of the applicant's ability to communicate effectively:

(1) Documentation from:

(a) A speech-language pathologist who is currently licensed to practice speech pathology in the United States indicating that the applicant can communicate in a professionally competent manner with patients and other health care providers; or

(b) Three Maryland licensed podiatrists that attest to the fact that the applicant can communicate in a professionally competent manner with patients and other health care providers; and

(2) A personal hearing before the Board during which the applicant relays the manner in which the applicant would:

(a) Obtain a history;

(b) Conduct a physical examination;

(c) Order additional tests;

(d) Obtain consultations; and

(e) Relay the results of the examination and treatment plan to a patient.