Job Description

Provides diagnosis and treatment for patients with speech-language and/or swallowing disorders resulting from neurogenic or surgical etiologies. Develops appropriate therapy modalities based on severity, determines the best methods, and a point at which therapy can be discontinued.
Education

• Master\'s degree in Speech-Language Pathology required

• 1-2 years of progressively more responsible job-related experience required

• SP-L - Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the District of Columbia within 90 Days required
• ASHA - American Speech Language Hearing Association certification required
• Provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations to patients with speech, language and/or swallowing disorders, including head-neck cancer patients.
• Establishes treatment goals and develops therapeutic programs. Makes determinations as to whether patient may continue eating orally, or if an alternate peripheral nutritional method is required. Provides esophageal voice training, tracheoesophageal voice training, and training in the use of prosthetic devices. Conducts and interprets videofluorography. Conducts invasive tracheoesophageal puncture evaluations.
• Summarizes test results and prognostic evidence. Completes progress notes and related documentation in medical records and responds to referral source(s). Maintains statistical data as required by department.
• Determines appropriate period when therapy can be discontinued based on patient\'s performance and progress. Arranges for follow-up care as required.
• Performs hearing screening as required.
• Completes all required documentation for patient billing.
• Participates in interdepartmental rehabilitation team meetings, discharge rounds and family conferences.
• Presents speech-language inservices to nursing staff, Rehabilitation Department, and medical residents as assigned.
• Provides guidance to and may serve as a professional resource for graduate students completing a clinical practicum.
• Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments in the field by reading appropriate books, journals and other literature, and by attending related seminars, conferences.

Medstar Health