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.
Speech Pathologist Speech Therapists apply principles, methods and procedures of measurements, prediction, non-medical diagnosis, testing, counseling consultation, rehabilitation and instruction related to the development and disorders of speech, voice, swallowing, and/or language for the purpose of preventing, ameliorating or modifying such disorder conditions in individuals and/or groups of individuals.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Evaluates and assesses the patient based on subjective and objective information obtained through interview, medical chart review, formal and informal test administration, with appropriate analysis and interpretation of results, to develop a plan of care. Establishes a written treatment plan based upon the results of the evaluation to establish objective, measurable, functional patient focused goals with time frames. Re-assesses the patient's status when goals are not met or when a change in status has occurred. Involves patient/family in establishing the treatment plan and accommodates for individual needs (cultural differences, language, etc.) Administers treatment in an organized, professional manner adhering to all department/hospital policies, best practice standards, NYS practice acts and physician protocols. Implements and updates treatment programs to ensure maximum effectiveness. Completes all documentation (evaluation, re-assessments, daily notes and discharge summaries) within established timeframes and according to regulatory guidelines. Provides written and/or verbal communication to referral sources, insurance companies, patients, families, and other members of the interdisciplinary team (Discharge planning/SW/other therapy personnel/nursing staff) in a timely fashion. Participates in team, interdisciplinary meetings as appropriate. Maintains a positive, professional working rapport with patients, peers and referral sources. Keeps referral sources abreast of patient's status in a timely manner. Willing to assist other members of the interdisciplinary team when asked. Assists in performance improvement activities as needed to ensure quality is consistent with established guidelines to improve patient care. Maintains a productive caseload and productively utilizes non-scheduled treatment time. Communicates with manager/director regarding their schedule and use of nonproductive time to enhance efficiency Participates in educational in-services, meetings, community programs and performance improvement activities as requested by Manager/Director. Provide training to health care providers as directed by manager/director (students, volunteers). Performs modified barium swallow studies adhering to all safety guidelines, interpret results and communicates with referral sources regarding findings in a timely manner. Maintains all department equipment and treatment areas in a clean and safe manner. Provides accurate billing information in a timely manner, maintains compliance with insurance guidelines, and completes all required documentation for reimbursement. Counsel and educates individuals with speech and language disorders and their families or care givers to understand their disorder and to communicate more effectively in educational, social, and vocational settings. Performs any other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS EXPERIENCE
Preferred:
Previous experience in the profession of speech-language pathology including work in particular with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children. Knowledge and practice with adult population including stroke and dysphagia, and Modified Barium Swallow Studies.
EDUCATION
Obtained at least a Masters degree in speech-language pathology or its equivalent, as determined by the NYS education department, in accordance with the NYS commissioner's regulations.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
Required:
Completion of clinical training required by ST Program and NYS licensure or limited license
Preferred:
Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from
