Speech-Language Pathologist - Outpatient Rehab, Per Diem

POSITION SUMMARY:

Plans and implements specific treatment programs for patients according to the principles and practices of occupational therapy and in collaboration with the health care team.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the general direction of the Director and the direct supervision of the Manager or Supervisor of the specific treatment site and within established policies, procedures and guidelines, the incumbent performs the following functions:

Essential Functions Speech and Language Pathologist:

1. Evaluates the skilled speech/language therapy needs of the referred patient.

a) Identifies the problems.

b) Develops a written plan of care.

c) Established measurable short and long term goals with time frames.

2. Explains the program to the patient and receives input and agreement to proceed with the plan.

3. Re-evaluates the patient status and adjusts the problems treatment plan and goals in accordance to the findings.

4. Directs and assists patients in therapeutic interventions that include, but not limited to, disorders and related disorders of speech, articulation, fluency, voice, verbal, cognition, communication, swallowing and oral, pharyngeal or laryngeal sensory motor competencies.

5. Instructs patient and family/significant other (SO) proper swallowing techniques and exercises.

6. Documents all assessments in the medical record in a clear, concise manner on a daily basis.

a) Responsible for timely evaluations, re-evaluations and discharge summaries.

b) Responsible for home programs as appropriate.

7. Demonstrates discharge planning skills as evidenced by:

a) Ability to quickly and accurately assess the patients needs immediately after the initial evaluation.

b) Preparation and participation in a variety of meetings can include family meetings, team meeting, case management.

c) Recommendations for home programs.

8. Assists in orientation and training of new staff.

9. Submits charges for all services and supplies provided to the patient.

10. Adheres to Infection Control and Environment of Care standards.

11. Supports the mission, vision and values of Catholic Medical Center.

12. Maintains compliance with Medicare and other insurance guidelines as well as policies and procedures.

13. Performs similar or related duties as assigned or requested.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Individuals must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities and to possess the necessary physical requirements, with or without the aid of mechanical devices to safely perform the essential functions of the job:

1. Ability to deliver patient care in a manner that is appropriate to the demographics and/ or specific needs of the patient population served by the hospital.

2. Demonstrates proficiency in assessing, responding and adapting treatment of care to meet the needs of the patient population served by the hospital.

3. Ability to exert up to 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

4. Ability to demonstrate courtesy, compassion and respect and good communications in relating to patients, families, visitors, physicians, and coworkers.

5. Ability to establish a cooperative, collaborative working environment.

6. Ability to accept constructive feedback and initiate appropriate actions to correct situations.

7. Ability to provide a calm, supportive and therapeutic environment for patients and their families.

8. Ability to endure periods of heavy workload or stress.

9. Ability to work with frequent interruptions and respond appropriately to unexpected situations.

10. Must be knowledgeable of the ASHA Code of Ethics and the state licensure law and practice act.

11. Ability to travel to off-site programs, conferences, facilities.

  • WORK SCHEDULE:

    • Generally Fridays

    QUALIFICATIONS:

    Education:

    • Master's Degree in Speech/Language Pathology.

    Experience:

    • Professional memberships and development of career goals encouraged.

    Licensure/Certification:

    • Must be licensed in the State of New Hampshire as a Speech-Language Pathologist by the NH Office of Licensed Allied Health Professionals.

    • Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech/Language and Hearing Association for all, except new graduates.

    • American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.