Speech Language Pathologist

Job Summary:

The Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is responsible for evaluating, diagnosing, and treating patients with communication, cognitive, voice, speech, language, fluency, and swallowing disorders. The SLP develops and implements individualized treatment plans designed to maximize patient outcomes and improve quality of life. The Speech-Language Pathologist collaborates with physicians, nurses, therapists, patients, families, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient-centered care while maintaining compliance with all hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and professional standards.

Position Qualifications/Requirements:

Education / Experience:

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program required.
• Minimum one (1) year of clinical experience in an acute care hospital, rehabilitation facility, skilled nursing facility, or outpatient setting preferred.
• Experience with dysphagia assessment and treatment strongly preferred.
• Experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems preferred.

Licensure / Certification:

• Current and unrestricted Florida Speech-Language Pathologist License required.
• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) preferred.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Skills / Requirements:

• Knowledge of speech-language pathology principles, practices, and treatment techniques.
• Knowledge of swallowing disorders and dysphagia management.
• Strong clinical assessment and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to educate patients, families, and healthcare staff effectively.
• Strong organizational, time management, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Electronic Health Record systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and treat a variety of speech-related disorders, including language, speech, voice, swallowing (dysphagia), cognitive-communication, and fluency disorders.
• Perform comprehensive patient assessments and develop individualized treatment plans based on clinical findings, patient needs, and physician orders.
• Implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions and monitor patient progress toward established goals.
• Maintain accurate and timely patient records, including initial evaluations, treatment notes, progress reports, care plans, discharge summaries, and other required documentation within the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Educate patients, families, and caregivers regarding diagnoses, treatment plans, home exercise programs, compensatory strategies, and expected outcomes.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to coordinate patient care and facilitate optimal treatment outcomes.
• Ensure therapeutic interventions are performed safely, effectively, and within established timeframes. Involve appropriate staff members and family members in the patient's plan of care as indicated.
• Participate in Quality Assurance (QA) and Performance Improvement (PI) activities to enhance patient care, safety, and departmental performance.
• Attend and actively participate in departmental meetings, in-service training programs, continuing education activities, and other educational sessions.
• Maintain an orderly, clean, and safe treatment environment in accordance with hospital policies and infection prevention standards.
• Adjust daily schedules and caseloads as necessary to meet patient evaluation and treatment demands.
• Prepare educational materials, therapeutic assignments, and training resources for patients, caregivers, and staff as requested.
• Demonstrate knowledge of hospital emergency procedures and respond appropriately during emergency situations.
• Provide exceptional customer service to patients, families, visitors, physicians, and coworkers while promoting a positive patient experience.
• Observe and comply with all patient safety measures, infection control standards, HIPAA requirements, and hospital policies and procedures.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, local, and accreditation standards, including Joint Commission requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.