Evaluates patients regarding the application of a wide variety of therapeutic interventions for rehabilitation of speech, language, hearing, and dysphagia disorders.

RESPONSIBILITY

The speech–language pathologist is responsible for implementation of standards of care for speech language pathology services and for adherence to all conditions in the Service Agreement.

• Conducts appropriate evaluations, assesses home environment (as appropriate), identifies equipment needs relative to speech/language function.
• Identifies functional speech defects and establishes a plan of care to improve patient’s function.
• Administers speech therapy program utilizing specialized therapeutic technique and/or equipment.
• Recommends communication devices/aids as indicated.
• Confers with referring physician and other organization personnel to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care contributes to the total plan of care.
• Prepares and submits notes per organization policy.
• Maintains clinical competency in speech language pathology practice and theory.
• Identifies patient and family/caregiver needs for other services and refers as appropriate.
• Instructs patient, family/caregiver and other Organization health care personnel in the patient’s treatment regime as indicated.
• May supervise home health aide in procedures directly related to the speech–language therapy plan of care.