The Speech Therapist is a registered professional who provides therapeutic techniques for the rehabilitation of patients with speech, language, hearing, oral motor, swallowing and cognitive disorders. Provides coordinated care to patients of all age groups. Plans, implements, and evaluates patient care plans to restore or maintain patient well-being. Collaborates with interdisciplinary team.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform initial and ongoing clinical assessments to identify patient needs, determine level of functioning, including assessments at appropriate time points and appropriateness of patient for home health.
• Develop and revise a Plan of Care in consultation with the physician and other IDT members.
• Provide therapeutic treatments for speech, language, cognitive, and swallowing disorders with appropriate tests and measurements.
• Evaluate outcomes of care with appropriate discharge planning.
• Apply concepts of infection control and universal precautions in coordinating/performing patient care activities to prevent contamination and transmission of diseases.
• Accept clinical assignments that are consistent with education and competence to care for patients.
• Supervise speech language assistant and HA as appropriate.
• Complete appropriate documentation in a timely manner.
• Meet mandatory continuing education requirements of the agency/licensing board.
• Use effective interpersonal relations and communication skills to advise and consult with the family and other agency personnel as appropriate.
• Demonstrate commitment, professional growth, and competency.
• Promote Agency philosophy and administrative policies to ensure quality of care.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited college or university.
• Current Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology, Certificate of Clinical Competence from American Speech-Language Hearing Association
• Current Texas Driver's License.

Licensure

Experience

• Two years of experience in an acute care or rehabilitation setting, home health preferred.
• Therapy skills as defined as generally accepted standards of practice.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• If required to make visits need proof of current CPR, TB screen and Hepatitis profile.
• Knowledge of durable medical equipment.

Skills

Transportation

• Reliable transportation.
• Valid and current auto liability insurance.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EFFORT:

Requires working under some stressful conditions to meet deadlines and patient needs and to meet patient/family individualized psychosocial needs.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

Works in a patient's home in various conditions; possible exposure to blood and bodily fluids and infectious diseases; ability to work flexible schedule; ability to travel locally; some exposure to unpleasant weather.