Speech Language Pathologist Senior Living

Overview

This role is based in an Assisted Living, Independent Living, and Memory Care setting.

Summary

Provide Speech-Language Pathology Therapy and related services for patients while maintaining positive levels of interaction with facilities and clients in accordance with the principles and practices of Speech-Language Pathology therapy and within Reliant Rehabilitation guidelines. Provide quality patient care including screening and evaluation of patients, development of initial and ongoing treatment plans of care, discharge plan, supervision of assistants and Rehab Techs, and case management responsibilities. Maintain professional conduct that represents Reliant Rehabilitation’s commitment to quality and service in all interactions with clients, including positive levels of interaction and rapport with facilities and clients. Adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding speech-language pathology therapy.

Responsibilities

• Optimize communication, cognitive‑linguistic abilities, and swallowing skills of patients by providing, directing, and/or overseeing speech therapy, including screening of residents as appropriate.
• Evaluate and treat patients referred by state‑approved referral sources.
• Comply with state and federal guidelines regarding accurate and timely billing and documentation in the medical record.
• Establish and maintain effective interactions with patients, interdisciplinary team, and other clientele reflecting patient‑centered care.
• Directly supervise Rehab Techs during group and individual treatment, promoting efficient resource utilization and clinical skill development in accordance with State Practice Acts, OBRA, and Reliant Rehabilitation policy.
• Build a strong Speech‑Language Pathology program by integrating SLP therapy into the community and interdisciplinary team, contributing to utilization review, case management, administrative activities, and family conferences.
• Maintain good working relationships with other health‑care professionals and make appropriate referrals to the rehabilitation team.
• Develop and implement new programs/techniques to enhance rehabilitation services.
• Adhere to Reliant Rehabilitation and client‑specific policies on environmental safety, orderliness, risk management, infection control, and emergency preparedness.
• Uphold patient rights and privacy requirements.
• Enhance clinical expertise and professional/management skills through interaction with managers, therapists, self‑study, and continuing education.
• Maintain a valid state license (where appropriate) and stay aware of profession‑related issues and health‑care environment.
• Understand relevant payment models, billing, treatment guidelines, and appropriate delivery modes.
• Provide quality care with reasonable goals and outcomes within guidelines.
• Follow infection control procedures and environmental safety protocols.
• Perform patient lifting using appropriate biomechanical techniques; capable of lifting 30 pounds of dead weight alone.
• Maintain confidentiality of Reliant Rehabilitation, community, and patient information.
• Conduct self in an ethical, legal, and responsible manner; adhere to Team Member Handbook and Code of Business Conduct.
• Travel between facilities during scheduled hours and work varying hours and shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Attend all mandatory meetings, trainings, and assignments as delegated.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Competency: Prior to patient care, a peer SLP may complete a Competency Checklist.
• Effective clinical problem‑solving skills: identify and prioritize issues, develop innovative action plans, execute them timely, and ensure appropriate results.
• Strong team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with a diverse population.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehending English in instructions, correspondence, charts, memos, and reports.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, productive environment.
• Master’s Degree or equivalent in Speech‑Language Pathology.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and basic Internet navigation.
• Valid Speech‑Language Pathologist state license (where appropriate).