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The Speech Pathology & Audiology Department can help patients of all
ages with communication difficulties related to speech, hearing, and
swallowing. Whether the problems are congenital or occurred after an
illness or injury, our certified specialists can develop an
individualized treatment program that strives to enhance the patient's
quality of life.
We can help patients with communication problems related to
- stroke recovery;
- speech/language delay;
- laryngectomy;
- voice problems;
- stuttering;
- dysphagia (swallowing);
- language of the learning disabled;
- hearing impairment;
- non-verbal communication;
- articulation problems;
- foreign dialect; and
- tongue thrust.
As rehabilitation professionals, speech/language pathologists work
closely with physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, physical
therapists, vocational counselors, social workers, and patient
families.
Staff
Our program is staffed with three speech pathologists certified by the
American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). Our speech
pathologists are well-trained in diagnostic and treatment techniques
— each has nine to 16 years of clinical experience. An
ASHA-certified audiologist is also available for services.
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Services
We focus on developing an individualized treatment plan that is
appropriate for the patient's age — from small children to
seniors. Our patients and their families frequently use the following
programs.
- Screening, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up services for impairments with speech, language, hearing, swallowing, cognitive aspects of communication, and behavior issues
- Consultation, counseling, and referrals to other medical or social work professionals
- Training and support for family members and other communication partners of patients with speech, voice, language, hearing communications
- Development of effective alternative communication techniques and strategies, including the user of aids and devices for training patients and their families
- Training patients with use of appropriate prosthetic or adaptive devices for speaking
- Diagnosing and treating swallowing disorders by using technology
- Aural rehabilitation and related counseling services to individuals with hearing loss
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Summer Program for Children
Our department operates a special summer program for children who may
or may not receive public school speech therapy. Many public school
speech pathologists arrange for children to receive therapy at
Jefferson Regional Medical Center during the summer so progress can
continue without interruption. Our speech pathologists communicate
closely with the referring school pathologist to ensure that the
child's summer goals are met.
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Modified Barium Swallow Testing
This advanced technique allows our pathologists to assess a patient's
swallowing function by examining the mouth, pharnyx, and esophagus
with special equipment. Sometimes referred to as video fluoroscopy,
this technique can be performed by our specialists at bedside or the
physician's office.
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Location and Appointment Information
Therapy is available weekdays from 8:00 a.m. through early evening at
our offices in Jefferson Regional Medical Center.
The program accepts referrals from physicians, social workers, family
members, or directly from the individual seeking treatment. Most major
insurance plans are accepted; a patient account advisor can assist
patients without insurance or coverage for these services.
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