Speech/Language Pathologist - Home Health - Supplemental at Sky Lakes Medical Center

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under general supervision, plans and administers medically prescribed speech-language pathology services for patients to restore speech-language function and/or a system of communication, cognitive function and swallowing. Duties are performed within the patient’s home or place of residence and within the home health department.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required: 

Masters Degree in Speech/language Pathology; American Speech/language and Hearing Association certification, and appropriate state licensure(s) Valid driver’s license and private vehicle or proof of reliable transportation with good driving record; and Proof of current auto liability insurance for self or driver. Maintain professional appearance to assure patient confidence; and Excellent communication skills. 

Preferred:  2 years therapy experiencE.

Lic/Reg/Cert:  Current Oregon licensure as a speech therapist.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS:

Medium to high physical and mental demand capabilities required.  Must be able to physically maneuver through unpredictable and unalterable physical spaces and to be able to climb more than two flights of stairs.  Must be able to provide hands-on patient care and physically manipulate equipment.  Must be able to work independently with patients within individual private homes and residences and with coworkers.  Must be able to prioritize patient care needs and be able to give directions to other care providers.  Must be able to travel up to 150 miles per day in variable weather conditions.  Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Reviews patient’s medical record to determine precautions and confers with rehab staff and other involved home health to coordinate care and expedite patient’s recovery.
• Gathers appropriate subjective information from the patient, evaluates patient using objective tests and measurements, interprets appropriate evaluation procedures and determines plan of care by end of work day.
• Assesses patient for adaptive communication devices and communication systems and assesses home environment for safety.
• Effectively communicates with patients and family and performs primary patient/caregiver education and motivates patients, family, or caregivers in the rehabilitation program and care needs of the patient develops/implements home programs as appropriate.
• Regularly reassesses patient’s progress, modifies treatment plan accordingly, updates goals and insures necessary physicians orders are in place and notifies physician with patient status changes.
• Maintains therapy equipment and accurately charges for supplies.
• Develops and supervises the HCA plan of care when appropriate, provides instruction/training and documents supervisory visits according to regulations.
• Productivity is maintained according to department standard: currently 5-6 units per 8 hour day.
• Participates in weekly patient care conferences and departmental meetings as requested.
• Maintains competency through annual education in the care of age specific and culturally specific needs.
• Effective response in emergency situations.

MARGINAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Performs other duties as assigned.