Outpatient Rehabilitation
Speech Program
Many patients may need to see a speech pathologist after suffering a stroke or as a result of a brain tumor, head or neck cancer or neuromuscular disorder. Our speech pathologists are highly trained to evaluate and treat disorders of voice, speech, language, cognition, and swallowing that may result from one of these conditions. Our outpatient department now offers the Lee Silverman voice treatment, specializing in patients with Parkinson's disease by a certified speech pathologist.
The role of the speech pathologist is to:
- Define the nature and severity of the swallowing problem, determine prognosis and recommend the appropriate swallowing treatment, conpensatory strategies and appropriate and safe diet textures.
- Complete, if necessary, a modified barium swallow study (an x-ray of the swallow) in conjuction with radiology, to further evaluate the swallowing function.
- Provide diagnosis of speech and/or language disorders, determine prognosis and make recommendations for follow-up treatment.
- Identify how to manage communication needs in the hospital or outpatient environment.
- Advocate for patients when they are making quality of life decisions.
- Provide education, training and counseling for patients, families and caregivers.
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