“What do you actually do?”: The Role of a Medical Speech-Language Pathologist
Over the past 14 years, I often get asked the question, “What do you actually do?” In my attempt to answer, this invariably leads to other questions, such as “But your name tag says “speech” on it, why are you talking about memory, attention, eating, and swallowing? Let's clear some things up.
Defining the Role: What is an SLP?
A Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, often referred to as a Medical SLP, is a healthcare professional specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders. My expertise extends to various settings within the healthcare system, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. My primary goal is to address and improve the communication and swallowing abilities of individuals affected by a range of conditions.
What I Do
Assessment and Diagnosis
SLPs like me are trained to conduct comprehensive assessments to identify and diagnose speech, language, cognitive, and swallowing disorders. I use these assessments to help formulate tailored treatment plans to address specific needs.
Speech and Language Therapy
After completing an assessment, I implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions to enhance speech and language skills. This may involve exercises, strategies, and other modalities to improve articulation, language comprehension, and expression.
Cognitive Rehabilitation
In cases where cognitive abilities are affected, I help develop strategies to improve memory, attention, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions crucial for daily life. Working with caregivers is necessary for success in this area.
Swallowing Disorders Management
I specialize in the assessment and management of swallowing disorders (dysphagia). Of all the disorders I treat, I am especially passionate about this in particular. Eating is closely tied to quality of life, communication, and overall well being in our society. In collaboration with the patient and family, I design therapeutic plans to improve swallowing function, ensuring individuals can safely and efficiently consume food and liquids.
Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
When indicated, I collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. This interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive and coordinated care.
Why Are Medical SLPs Important?
Enhancing Quality of Life
By addressing communication and swallowing challenges, we have an enormous impact on the overall quality of life for individuals dealing with these complex issues. Imagine not being able to express yourself or eat your favorite foods. Even small steps toward progress can go a long way to improving quality of life.
Facilitating Recovery
In medical settings, such as post-stroke rehabilitation or after surgery, we play a crucial role in facilitating the recovery process by restoring communication and swallowing abilities. Early and consistent intervention is key, however we can help make a difference in their patient’s lives even years after their injury occurred.
Empowering Patients and Families
The role I consider to be most important is providing education and support to patients and their families, empowering them to actively participate in the therapeutic process and manage communication and swallowing disorders effectively. Without this, individuals in need of speech pathology services are much less likely to have satisfactory outcomes.
Working as a medical SLP, I have had the opportunity to witness patients and families working together to help improve their deficits. My goal is further facilitation of that work with you and your loved one driving the plan of care. Robert Collier said “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day-in and day-out.” I believe that wholeheartedly and I look forward to the opportunity to serve you and your loved one.
~Ashley, SLP