Jobs · Healthcare · Massachusetts

Home Health Speech Language Pathologist, SLP

Tufts Medicine · Lowell, MA · 2 mo ago
Healthcare$84k–$107k/yrFull-time

About the Role

This clinician is responsible for evaluating and diagnosing complex problems relating to speech, language, communication, and/or swallowing disorders. The role involves formulating and recommending a plan, which may include therapy, referrals, extended evaluations, or home training programs to achieve maximum functional independence. This position works in both inpatient and outpatient settings and may supervise other staff clinicians.

The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation, or delivery of processes, programs, and policies using specialized knowledge typically acquired through advanced education. Responsibilities include managing projects, working independently, coaching lower-level professionals, and resolving complex problems.

Responsibilities

  • Evaluates and/or screens complex patients referred to Speech and Language Pathology with professional competency and efficiency, delivering care to patients from infancy to adulthood.
  • Diagnoses speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders using behavioral observations, case history, standardized tests, and professional judgment.
  • Makes recommendations including therapy, referrals, extended evaluations, or home training programs.
  • Prepares complete written reports of evaluations and progress for individual cases.
  • Consults with clients, patients, and caregivers regarding recommendations and necessary carryover programs; evaluates progress and effectiveness of home programs.
  • Determines realistic goals, dismissal criteria, and supplemental materials to enhance patient and family understanding of disorders.
  • Selects appropriate tests, measures, and rehabilitation services, delivering high-quality patient care.
  • Informs and consults with medical personnel regarding type, extent, and prognosis of speech and/or language disorders.
  • Provides follow-up procedures, including communication with other professionals and social services agencies.
  • Participates in interdisciplinary and family conferences to coordinate services.
  • Completes documentation (evaluation reports, progress notes, re-assessments, discharge summaries) in a timely manner.
  • Complies with insurance requirements, including obtaining MD signatures and approvals.
  • Coordinates the Graduate Student Internship program in Speech-Language Pathology, including developing criteria, clinical procedures, and evaluating interns.
  • Schedules and provides in-service training to professionals and service providers regarding speech/language and swallowing disorders.
  • Oversees day-to-day operations of the Speech and Language Program, including scheduling, hiring, training, and performance evaluations of staff.
  • Monitors individual workloads and assists with scheduling to meet workload requirements.
  • Stays current with literature and new tests, instruments, and technologies in the field.
  • Maintains knowledge of patient care programs and devices.
  • May initiate or participate in research projects and perform related bookkeeping duties.

Requirements

  • Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
  • Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
  • Speech Therapist License.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.
  • Five (5) years of experience in Speech-Language Pathology.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Six (6) years of experience, including two (2) years working with head-injured patients.
  • Training and experience as a Pediatric Dysphagia Specialist.

Skills & Abilities

  • Broad knowledge and skills in diagnosing and treating speech, language, cognitive, communicative, and swallowing disorders.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including communication, teamwork, and the ability to work one-on-one or in groups.
  • Ability to work independently, self-motivated, and well-organized.
  • Ability to function effectively in busy situations and adjust to changes quickly.
  • Maturity to operate within a multi-disciplinary setting.
  • Ability to work with a wide variety of patients with acute and long-term disabilities.
  • Proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating in English.
  • Knowledge and skills to assess the needs of patients across all age populations.
  • Ability to observe and evaluate treatment effects and adjust care plans as needed.
  • Strong time management skills to ensure productivity while maintaining quality patient care.

Physical Requirements

  • Frequent standing, walking, and transferring of patients.
  • Manual dexterity for operating a computer keyboard and providing quantitative testing and manual treatment techniques.
  • Ability to see computer screens and reports.
  • Visual assessment of patient injuries and functional status.
  • Auditory assessment of patient subjective complaints.

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week. No weekends or holidays.

Pay

Pay Range: $84,300.22 - $107,481.20

Benefits

  • Competitive salaries and benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits starting on day one.
  • 403(b) retirement plan with company match.
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support.
  • Access to MedBridge for PT CEUs and licensure/certification support.
  • Opportunities for career growth.
  • Fleet car program to reduce personal vehicle burden.
  • Industry-leading safety program, including:
    • AVADE de-escalation and self-safety training.
    • InvisaWear GPS-enabled safety devices.
    • Escort services to ensure staff safety in the field.

Similar jobs