Speech Therapist

Speech–Language Pathologist

The Speech–Language Pathologist is responsible for implementation of standards of care for speech language pathology services and for adherence to all conditions in the Service Agreement.

Conducts appropriate evaluations, assesses home environment (as appropriate), and identifies equipment needs relative to speech/language function.

Assumes responsibility for the ongoing interdisciplinary assessment and development of the individualized plan of care in partnership with the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s);

Provides services that are ordered by the physician as indicated in the plan of care;

Provides patient, caregiver, and family counseling;

Provides patient and caregiver education;

Prepares clinical notes;

Communicates with the physician who is responsible for the home health plan of care and other health care practitioners (as appropriate) related to the current home health plan of care

Identifies functional speech defects and establishes a plan of care to improve patient's function.

Administers speech therapy program utilizing specialized therapeutic technique and/or equipment.

Recommends communication devices/aids as indicated.

As appropriate, participates in case conferences, in-services and other meetings required ensuring coordinated and comprehensive care.

Maintains clinical competency in speech language pathology practice and theory.

Identifies patient and family/caregiver needs for other services and refers as appropriate.

May supervise home health aide in procedures directly related to the speech–language therapy plan of care.

Participates in the HHA's quality assessment and performance improvement program and HHA-sponsored in-service training.

Performs other duties as required to facilitate the delivery of speech language pathology services.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by the employee of this job. The employee may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

Job requirements (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)

Must have a master's or doctoral degree in speech-language pathology and be licensed in the state where practicing. If licensure is not required, the speech-language pathologist must have completed or be in the process of completing 350 clock hours of supervised clinical practicum (or is in the process of accumulating supervised clinical experience). In such case, the speech-language pathologist is to have performed not less than nine months of supervised full-time speech-language pathologist services after obtaining a master's or doctoral degree in speech-language pathology or a related field; and successfully completed a national examination in speech-language pathology approved by the Secretary.

A minimum of one year's clinical experience in Speech–Language Pathology.

Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills.

Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.

The ability to drive and/or have access to transportation for agency related travel (e.g. community partners, patients, etc.) is an essential function of the job. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, maintain automobile insurance coverage and have access to an automobile.

The employer for this position is The Pennant Group, Inc., a holding company of independent operating subsidiaries that provide healthcare services through home health and hospice agencies and senior living communities located throughout the US.