Speech Therapist - Home Health

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Speech/Language Pathologist evaluates and provides treatment for patients exhibiting speech, language, cognitive and/or swallowing disorders. Collaborates as an integral member with interdisciplinary treatment team. Applies a wide variety of techniques for rehabilitation of speech, language, dysphagia, hearing, and oral motor disorders. Demonstrates consideration and concern, and inspires confidence when interacting with patients, family members, visitors, members of the medical staff or other employees. Performs duties in a manner consistent with GSHCS mission.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Core Competencies: 

• Professionalism
  • Represents GSHCS in a professional manner while performing job duties for patients, physicians, visitors and/or other staff members as evidenced by appropriate language, dress, and conduct.
  • Participates in the Performance Improvement Process.  Maintains quality and efficiency standards as set by the immediate supervisor and makes recommendations for improvements.
  • Participates in activities that promote professional growth and self-development.  Attends pertinent in-services, departmental and other meetings as requested by immediate supervisor.
  • Adheres to GSHCS professional dress code.  Wears Identification badge.

• Problem Solving/Critical Thinking:
  • Identifies work-related problems with possible solutions and implements solution(s) when appropriate.
  • Maintains a constant awareness of the legal aspects of position and demonstrates this in decisions related to job performance issues.

• Procedures, Processes and Skills:
  • Maintains an in-depth knowledge of training principles, practices, standards, and techniques and demonstrates knowledge in accordance with GSHCS policies and procedures.  Develops policies and procedures in the following areas: Speech/Language Pathology.

• Safety:
  • Maintains and demonstrates a thorough knowledge of Speech/Language Pathology department safety policies and procedures as they pertain to the job, including the fire and disaster plans.
  • Maintains a safe environment for patients, guests, and staff.
  • Maintains confidentially of information deemed confidential.

•  Communications:
  • Able to meet and verbally communicate with public in a positive and professional way.
  • Is skillful in use of the written word and is able to convey meaning effectively in print.

•  Healing Health Care
  • Establishes a therapeutic presence by using People-Centered Team skills of differentiation, compassionate listening, and knowledge of the change/transition process in situations involving emotions, life/death transition, and/or conflict.
  • Maintains harmonious and cooperative relations with physicians, nursing staff, patients, and guests.
  • Promotes healing by maintaining a peaceful, orderly, and clean environment.
  • Supports GSHCS vision, values, success factors, and code of conduct.

Administrative:

• Complete statistics for adult populations (e.g., inpatient numbers, Home Health numbers)
• Attend daily IDT meetings w/hospital personnel.
• Attend weekly meetings with department manager.
  • Team collaboration and needs.
  • Department numbers
  • HH/IP/adult OP stats and info
• Act as liaison between speech pathology department, inpatient hospital staff (e.g., hospitalists, nursing staff, dietitians, case management, etc.)
• Attend departmental meetings, as appropriate, regarding continuation and coordination of patient care.

QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: Masters degree or equivalent from an accredited program of Speech/Language Pathology.
CERTIFICATION: Certificate of Clinical Competence from American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Current BLS certification.
EXPERIENCE: Minimum of three (3) years of previous work experience, hospital experience Preferred. Must relate well with others.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Position requires excellent communication and customer service skills. Must work calmly and efficiently under pressure, handling demands from multiple sources professionally and courteously. Exemplifies a team concept. Exhibits tact and understanding in all interpersonal relations. Demonstrates flexibility, adaptability and good problem-solving skills in a variety of settings.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Good general health. Must be able to hear audible sound, and visually observe patient swallowing and speech mechanics. Frequent sitting and/or standing throughout work shift required. Able to operate office equipment and perform general office duties.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Internal clean, well lit and ventilated work area.