Speech Therapist

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The speech-language pathologist, contracted or employed, is responsible for implementation of standards of care for speech language pathology services and for adherence to all conditions in the Service Agreement. All care provided is within the scope of the Speech-Language Pathology Practice Act.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Conducts appropriate evaluative procedures, assesses home environment (as appropriate), identifies equipment needs relative to speech / language function.

2. Identifies functional speech defects and establishes goals and plan of care to improve patient's function and participates in the development of the plan of care.

3. Administers speech therapy program utilizing specialized therapeutic technique and / or equipment.

4. Recommends communication devices / aids as indicated.

5. Confers with referring physician and other organization personnel to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care with the interdisciplinary group.

6. As appropriate, participates in interdisciplinary group, in-services and other meetings required to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.

7. Prepares and submits clinical and progress records per office policy or federal / state regulations.

8. Maintains clinical competency in speech language pathology practice and theory.

9. Instructs patient and family / caregiver and other team members in the patient's treatment regime as indicated.

10. Performs other duties as required to facilitate the delivery of speech language pathology services and swallowing assistive services.

11. Participates in peer consultation process and quality management. Participates in orientation for hospice personnel.

12. Actively participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.

13. May supervise hospice aide in procedures directly related to the speech-language therapy.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

1. Possesses a degree that includes an internship from an approved masters program in Speech-Language Pathology, or as required by applicable law and / or regulation. Meets personnel qualifications stated in §418.114(b)(4).

2. Meets the education and experience requirements for a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, granted by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

3. Is certified to practice Speech-Language Pathology.

4. Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.

5. Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state and / or organization requirements and is in good working order.

6. A minimum of one (1) year's clinical experience in Speech-Language Pathology.

7. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills.

8. Understands hospice philosophy and focus of patient care is comfort and maintenance of self in current residence.