Speech Language Pathology
Speech language pathologists work with patients to address swallowing, problem solving, memory and communication disorders. Treatment is delivered using the most technologically advanced agents and techniques. Therapy can occur in a speech language pathology clinic area or at the patient’s bedside.
Speech language pathologists perform an extensive patient assessment process, which enables them to evaluate a patient’s improvement in swallowing, problem solving, memory and communicative abilities specific to the patient’s treatment goals.
Speech language pathology assessments can include an evaluation of the following:
- Cognitive ability
- Oral motor competency
- Interactive communication
- Dysphagia (abnormal swallowing)
- Hearing
- Need for computer-assisted or augmentative/alternative communication systems
- Effective use of appropriate prosthetic/adaptive devices for speaking and swallowing