Speech Language Pathologist-PRN

Speech Pathologist

The Speech Pathologist diagnoses and treats speech and language problems in hospital patients. Responsibilities include planning and conducting remedial programs to restore or improve communicative efficiency in patients with functional or organic speech disorders. The Speech Pathologist also provides counseling and guidance to patients, including pre-operative and post-operative care, and determines the need for referral to specialists. May perform some audiology-related duties.

Essential Functions/Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assess, diagnose, and treat speech and language disorders in patients.
• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans to address specific patient needs.
• Provide counseling and guidance to patients with speech and language handicaps, as well as their families, to improve understanding and support treatment.
• Conduct pre-operative counseling and therapy for patients undergoing procedures affecting speech and language functions.
• Deliver post-operative therapy and care to restore or enhance communication abilities.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care.
• Refer patients to specialists as necessary for additional evaluation or treatment.
• Document patient evaluations, treatment plans, progress, and outcomes in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Stay current with developments in speech pathology through continuing education and professional development.
• May perform audiology-related duties as required.
• Other job duties as assigned.

Education, Certificates, and License:

• Master's Degree in Speech Pathology required.
• State licensure or certification as a Speech Pathologist, or eligibility to obtain licensure.
• Basic Life Support (BLS), active or within 30 days of hire.

Experience:

• Previous experience in speech pathology preferred.
• Experience in a healthcare or hospital setting is an advantage.
• Familiarity with electronic medical record (EMR) systems preferred.

Skills/Abilities:

• Comprehensive knowledge of speech and language pathology principles and practices.
• Strong diagnostic and therapeutic skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for patient and team interactions.
• Ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Compassion and sensitivity in working with patients and families.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods of time while conducting assessments or providing therapy.
• Ability to stand, walk, and bend to interact with patients during therapy sessions.
• Ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate objects to use therapeutic equipment and materials.
• Ability to kneel, crouch, or squat when working with younger patients or those with mobility challenges.
• Visual and auditory acuity to observe patient reactions and speech patterns, as well as listen to patient responses for effective communication.
• Ability to perform manual tasks, such as writing, typing, and manipulating therapy tools.
• Ability to engage in verbal communication with patients, families, and staff, and to use clear speech to model correct pronunciation or speech patterns.
• Ability to travel to various patient locations (in-home visits or different facilities, if applicable).
• Ability to sustain energy and focus for long periods, especially during therapy sessions that may last an hour or more.
• Ability to work in environments that may require personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to illnesses.

EEOC Statement: Harrison County Community Hospital District provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.