Speech Pathologist Level II

Speech Therapists apply principles, methods and procedures of measurements, prediction, non-medical diagnosis, testing, counseling consultation, rehabilitation and instruction related to the development and disorders of speech, voice, swallowing, and/or language for the purpose of preventing, ameliorating or modifying such disorder conditions in individuals and/or groups of individuals. As Level 2 Therapist, they possess advanced knowledge and skills, who function with increased autonomy and responsibility, and who continue to actively pursue enhanced clinical knowledge and, in so doing, benefit both the community and the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluates and assesses the patient based on subjective and objective information obtained through interview, medical chart review, formal and informal test administration, with appropriate analysis and interpretation of results, to develop a plan of care. Establishes a written treatment plan based upon the results of the evaluation to establish objective, measurable, functional patient-focused goals with timeframes. Re-assesses the patient's status when goals are not met or when a change in status has occurred. Involves patient/family in establishing the treatment plan and accommodates individual needs (cultural differences, language, etc.).
• Administers treatment in an organized, professional manner adhering to all department/hospital policies, best practice standards, NYS practice acts and physician protocols. Implements and updates treatment programs to ensure maximum effectiveness.
• Completes all documentation (evaluation, re-assessments, daily notes and discharge summaries) within established timeframes and according to regulatory guidelines. Provides written and/or verbal communication to referral sources, insurance companies, patients, families, and other members of the interdisciplinary team (Discharge planning/SW/other therapy personnel/nursing staff) in a timely fashion. Participates in team, interdisciplinary meetings as appropriate.
• Maintains a positive, professional working rapport with patients, peers and referral sources. Keeps referral sources abreast of the patient's status in a timely manner. Willing to assist other members of the interdisciplinary team when asked.
• Assists in performance improvement activities as needed to ensure quality is consistent with established guidelines to improve patient care.
• Maintains a productive caseload and productively utilizes non-scheduled treatment time. Communicates with manager/director regarding their schedule and use of nonproductive time to enhance efficiency.
• Participates in educational in-services, meetings, community programs and performance improvement activities as requested by the Manager/Director. Provide training to healthcare providers as directed by the manager/director (students, volunteers). Maintains all department equipment and treatment areas in a clean and safe manner.
• Performs modified barium swallow studies adhering to all safety guidelines, interprets results and communicates with referral sources regarding findings in a timely manner.
• Provides accurate billing information in a timely manner, maintains compliance with insurance guidelines, and completes all required documentation for reimbursement.
• Counsels and educates individuals with speech and language disorders and their families or caregivers to understand their disorder and to communicate more effectively in educational, social, and vocational settings.
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 5 years clinical experience
• Preferred: Previous experience in the profession of speech-language pathology including work in particular with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children. Knowledge and practice with adult population including stroke and dysphagia, and Modified Barium Swallow Studies.

EDUCATION

• Obtained at least a Master's degree in speech-language pathology or its equivalent, as determined by the NYS education department, in accordance with the NYS commissioner's regulations.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• Required: Completion of clinical training required by ST Program/NYS
• Preferred: Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from ASHA
• CFY - consideration

OTHER

• BLS Certification