Communication Disorder Specialist

Sunshine Pediatric Day Center is looking for Speech-language pathologists tp assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in patients. Speech, language and swallowing disorders result from a variety of causes such as a stroke, brain injury, hearing loss, developmental delay, a cleft palate, cerebral palsy or emotional problems. Patients may be unable to speak at all, speak with difficulty or have rhythm and fluency problems, such as stuttering. They may work with those who are unable to understand language or with people who have been diagnosed with voice disorders, such as inappropriate pitch.

Speech-language pathologists must also complete administrative tasks, including keeping accurate records. They must record their initial patient evaluations, diagnoses, treatment progress and changes in a patient’s condition or treatment plan.

Department : Nursing

Report To : Director of Therapy

Speech Language Pathologist Duties

• Observe patients communication and feeding capabilities, ask the patient or family relevant questions and review each patient’s medical history
• Determine the extent of communication deficits by having a patient complete basic reading and vocalizing tasks or utilizing standardized tests
• Perform an in-depth patient evaluation and develop a specific treatment plan, identifying specific goals and interventions in accordance with the physician’s orders
• Implement the specific treatment plan and report pertinent observations and / or developments to the nursing staff
• Help pediatric patients with various disabilities with making sounds and improving their voices and developing and strengthening their muscles used to swallow
• Teach alternative communication methods, such as sign language, to patients with little or no speech capability
• Work with patients to improve their ability to read and write correctly
• Maintain an up-to-date medical record and submit all evaluations and notes in a timely manner
• Participate in patient care conferences and maintain an open line of communication with each patient’s family
• Bill daily for all services provided within the PPEC EMR system
• Assess and record patient’s activities and progress for patient evaluations for billing and reporting to physicians and PPEC nursing staff
• Perform all duties in compliance with PPEC policies and procedures. Report to the direct supervisor any issues or concerns regarding patient care within the scope of practice
• In the event of a therapist's resignation, 30 days' notice will be given to the PPEC to afford the opportunity to provide adequate coverage and training for the new oncoming therapist.

Speech Language Pathologist Regulatory Requirements

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit 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.