Speech-Language Pathologist

Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently conducts and interprets comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for speech, language, voice, fluency, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders, including complex and medically involved cases.
• Plans, implements, and monitors individualized treatment programs designed to restore and optimize communication and swallowing function, tailoring interventions to Veterans' unique goals and needs.
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge and clinical skill in the evaluation and management of dysphagia across the continuum of care, including instrumental assessment and interdisciplinary dysphagia management.
• Collaborates closely with the interprofessional care team to support timely and coordinated assessment, treatment planning, and safe discharge recommendations.
• Provides patient, family, and caregiver education to promote understanding of speech-language and swallowing disorders, rehabilitation strategies, and safety in mealtime and communication environments.
• Utilizes evidence-based practice and current clinical guidelines consistent with VA Speech-Language Pathology qualification standards and scope of practice.
• Maintains documentation in compliance with VA policies and accrediting body standards, ensuring that communication, assessment results, and clinical outcomes are clearly conveyed to all care team members.
• Demonstrates competence in the use and application of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, as well as in the management of communication and swallowing needs for tracheostomy and ventilator-dependent Veterans.
• Develops and adjusts plans of care in collaboration with patients and interdisciplinary providers to ensure measurable progress and meaningful outcomes.

Education

• Provides education and orientation to Veterans, family members, medical residents, allied health professionals, community organizations, students, and volunteers regarding the role and services of Speech-Language Pathology.
• Delivers in-service trainings to nursing staff, medical residents, and other allied health professionals on speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing evaluation and treatment procedures to support best practices in acute care.
• Supervises, mentors, and precepts student trainees and fellows in Speech-Language Pathology, maintaining active collaboration with affiliated colleges and universities to support clinical education and workforce development.
• Aids in the orientation and training of new Speech-Language Pathology staff to ensure consistency with VA policies, clinical standards, and Veteran-centered care principles.

Work Schedule

Flexible Alternate Work Schedule (AWS) including either Mondays or Fridays off with 4 hour shift on either Saturday or Sunday. TBA during interview. Work schedule may change due to operational needs of service. Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position.