Speech Therapist, Home Health (Per Diem, Luzerne County)

GENERAL SUMMARY :

Under the supervision of the Clinical Therapy Nursing Supervisor, or designee, the Speech / Language Pathologist II is responsible for providing services to homebound patients who have speech and / or language problems.

The Home Therapy Program is provided under the direction of the attending physician by the Speech / Language Pathologist II with participation by the family, nurse or other responsible persons as necessary.

The Speech / Language Pathologist II must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served by his / her department adolescent through geriatric.

• The Speech / Language Pathologist II must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span;
• possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status; interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age-specific needs;

and to provide care needed as described in the Home Health Division’s policies and procedures.

Type of supervision exercised : None. Jobs reporting to this position : None.

EDUCATION :

Completion of a Master's degree in Speech Pathology from an accredited program required.

WORK EXPERIENCE :

One (1) year of experience in Speech Pathology services preferred.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS :

Must possess, or be eligible for and agree to secure, the Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech Pathology from the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association.

Must possess or secure licensure to practice Speech Pathology in Pennsylvania.

Must be cleared by PA State Police criminal history check.

Must be a fluent speaker of the English language and be able to communicate in an effective manner with staff, patients, families, or significant others, management, and other professionals.

Must be familiar with and be able to independently administer test instruments and safely operate equipment used in the department for patient services.

Valid Pa driver’s license and available transportation during all working hours required.

Good verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills required for effective interaction with staff and clients.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS :

Light work : lifting 25 lbs. maximum with frequent (up to 50% of shift) lifting and / or carrying of objects weighing up to 10 lbs.

such as in the retrieval, using, and storing of materials and equipment used in therapy.

Position involves ambulating when performing tests and therapy; reaching for, handling, and manipulating equipment controls and work aids;

feeling patient's lips, mouth, jaw and throat.

Verbal skills are required to convey information and give instruction.

Acute hearing for determining differentiation in speech impairments and progress of patients under treatment is required.

Visual acuity is required for reading data and equipment controls and to observe mouth and lips in formation of sounds.

Must be able to travel to patient’s homes as required.

ACCIDENT OR HEALTH HAZARDS :

No unusual accident or health hazards inherent in position.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

Works in a well-lit office environment and in varying conditions in patient homes (where conditions may be less than desirable).