SPEECH PATHOLOGIST

General Description:

The Speech Pathologist is responsible for evaluating patients of a mixed-adult/pediatric population, establishing a plan of care and treating patients who require speech/ language therapy services. S/he delivers patient care within accepted boundaries of SLP Practice as defined by the New Mexico State Board of Speech Language Pathology, standards and policies accepted by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Gila Regional Medical Center and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

Essential Functions:

• Assesses the patient based on a referral from an appropriate provider.
• Plans care based on the physical, psychosocial, age and medical needs of the patient, and involves the patient, as well as the family/caregiver in the planning and delivery of care.

• Delivers safe, appropriate, planned patient care with accurate and timely documentation. Accurately communicates care and patient condition to patient, family, and all others involved in patient’s care.

• Document treatments, evaluations, discharges and progress reports.
• Notifies physician in a timely, appropriate manner with regard to the condition and status of the patient.
• Ensures a safe environment for the patient by maintaining a clean treatment area, reporting any concerns or issues with the equipment, and considering the patient’s age and condition.

• Prepares supplies, equipment, and treatment area for patient treatments.

• Directs and supports patient care activities provided by Rehab Techs or students, providing education and training as needed. Ensures that provided care is appropriate for the skill level of the caregiver, and that patient age and level-of-care requirements of are considered when reviewing treatment plan. 

• Provides appropriate education to patient and family and completes the required documentation.  Performs appropriate interventions as applicable.
• Participates in department meetings and case conferences.

• Maintains knowledge and skills to provide safe, effective and efficient care for patients.
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Training Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology
• New Mexico Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) license)
• AHA BLS
• ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence-SLP (CCC-SLP) required
• Ability to pass the Rehab Department Aquatic Competency test within 90 days of hire if aquatic therapy will be part of work/treatment requirements

• 3 years acute care/hospital based experience to include experience with Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS)

• FEES/Fiber Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallow Function is desirable

• Vital Stim Certification Preferred

Note:  Job description available upon request.

**All required documents must be presented at time of hire.**

EXTERNAL APPLICANT:  Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

GRMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer