A Speech Language Pathologist diagnoses and treats speech, language, and swallowing disorders in patients with a variety of conditions. Helps patients improve their ability to make sounds or use language, or develop non-spoken means of communication. May specialize in working with patients of a certain age group, or treat speech problems resulting from a condition such as a stroke or cleft palate. Works in schools, hospitals and other healthcare facilities and works closely with physicians, psychologists, social workers, and other therapists.
Evaluation and treatment as well as documentation of patient progress is required as well as the ability to communicate with patients, family, physicians, and hospital associates. They must demonstrate the knowledge and technical skill necessary for providing competent, comprehensive patient care as well as display behavior which promotes good guest relations to patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers. They must be able to teach/instruct patient, families, and colleagues.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
: The associate must can perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. They must demonstrate the knowledge and technical skill necessary for providing competent, comprehensive patient care as well as display behavior which promotes good guest relations to patients, visitors, physicians and co-workers. They must be able to communicate and comprehend the English language and possess keyboarding skills for computer documentation. The therapist is responsible for the evaluation and treatment of inpatients, outpatients and home health care as well as the development of a rehabilitation program that meets the parameters of the referring physician. They must be able to teach/instruct patients, families and colleagues. The therapist is responsible for accurate documentation that meets state, federal and facility guidelines as well as participation in departmental meetings/activities. They require knowledge of the healthcare system work environment and the role of the speech pathologist in the "health care team".
EXPECTED BEHAVIORS
: Conducts interactions with patients, visitors, physicians, volunteers, other associates and the public in a manner consistent with the intent of the hospital's mission, vision, and values. Performs appropriate diagnostic, neurological and functional skills tests and establishes a plan of treatment. Documents initial evaluation and each day of treatment in patient record in a timely manner and completes summary of patient's progress at discharge. Instructs and assists patients in the performance of communication, cognitive and dysphagia treatment to maximize therapeutic outcomes. Educates patients concerning how to maximize quality of life within the limits of their capabilities and family members concerning how to best assist patients in the rehabilitation process. Reads current literature and publications concerning therapeutic techniques and trends in Speech Pathology/health care. Participates in departmental performance/quality improvement and program development as well as in departmental events such as Heartbeats, Speech and Hearing month, health fairs, etc. Promotes the Rehab department through ongoing marketing within the medical community and the community at large.
Customer Service, Fire and Safety, Corporate Compliance (including Confidentiality), Infection Control, and education required by regulatory, accreditation bodies, scope of practice, and/or Hancock Regional Hospital. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
