Speech pathology assistants work in numerous settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics and long-term health care facilities. They can perform many tasks delegated by speech pathologists, such as assisting in hearing screenings and checking equipment. Speech pathology assistants also are permitted to follow documented treatment plans created by licensed pathologists and to informally document a patient's performance. Other tasks might include research assistance and aiding in the creation and maintenance of public relations programs. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the professional credentialing association for audiologists, speech pathologists and hearing scientists, has laid out rules and regulations to prevent the misuse of speech pathology assistants. Prohibited tasks include signing of formal documents, performing diagnostic tests, participating in conferences of any type and creating treatment plans without the supervision of a licensed speech pathologist. While there is no standard degree requirement for a position as a speech pathology assistant, the ASHA recommends completing at least an associate's degree program. Typical coursework covers communication disorders, normal communication processes and workplace behaviors. Speech pathology assistants also may be required to complete a certain amount of fieldwork before being fully acknowledged in their profession.