Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) - Adult Acute Care

Discover Vanderbilt Health: With eight hospitals and over 180 clinics, we are the region’s largest comprehensive academic health system. Vanderbilt Health has a long tradition of providing world-class care to the people of the Mid-South, living out our mission of moving medicine forward through preeminent programs in patient care, education and research. Here you’ll find a spirit of collaboration and a supportive community where your expertise is valued, your knowledge expanded and your uniqueness celebrated.

About the role

The speech-language pathologist provides evaluation and treatment for speech, language, cognitive, swallowing disorders and/or other voice disorders. Responsible for inpatient, outpatient and any contract services as assigned. They are expected to assist in general program development and to be actively involved in continuing education. In addition, they are responsible for knowing and adhering to hospital and departmental policies and procedures and the standards outlined in the Code of Ethics of ASHA and adhere to federal, state and local regulations.

This is an exceptional opportunity to work with medically complex adult patients while practicing advanced swallowing diagnostics and intervention in a collaborative hospital environment. We're looking for an SLP with strong dysphagia expertise who is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care, contributing to interdisciplinary practice, and helping patients achieve meaningful outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and treat adults with swallowing, speech, language, cognitive-communication, and voice disorders
• Provide comprehensive dysphagia assessment and treatment
• Perform Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS/VFSS)
• Perform Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on evidence-based practice
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, dietitians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals
• Document patient care in accordance with hospital and regulatory standards
• Educate patients and caregivers regarding swallowing safety and communication needs
• Mentor graduate students and Clinical Fellows within a teaching hospital environment
• Support the continued growth of speech-language pathology services, including future outpatient opportunities
• Provides direct patient care within scope of practice
• Evaluates, screens and treats human communication behaviors and disorders as well as swallowing and/or other voice disorders
• Initiates treatment plans, treatment, administration, instruction and consulting services
• Applies principles, methods, and procedures for prevention, identification, evaluation, treatment, consultation, habilitation, rehabilitation, instruction and research relative to communication and swallowing disorders
• May select and fit prosthetic and/or electrical devices for speech and swallowing
• Participates in Performance Improvement (PI) activities and marketing services as appropriate
• Attends case conference meetings and participates in student programs as requested
• Adheres to hospital policies and procedures, demonstrating professionalism and respecting patient confidentiality

Requirements

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program
• ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) required
• Tennessee Speech-Language Pathology license or eligibility
• Completion of Clinical Fellowship (CF)
• Minimum of 5 years of Speech-Language Pathology experience
• Strong experience in dysphagia evaluation and treatment

Preferred Qualifications

• Adult acute care hospital experience
• Experience managing medically complex and high-acuity adult patients independently
• Experience working in ICU and acute medical/surgical settings
• Experience performing MBSS/VFSS and FEES
• Interest in supporting future outpatient rehabilitation services
• Confidence serving as a clinical resource within an interdisciplinary team

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance beginning Day 1
• Generous paid time off and holiday benefits
• Retirement savings plans with employer contributions
• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities
• Continuing education support
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee wellness programs
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Career growth across the Vanderbilt Health system

Schedule

Full-Time | Monday-Friday

Location

Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital, Tullahoma, Tennessee

About the Area

Enjoy the best of both worlds: a rewarding healthcare career and an exceptional quality of life. Tullahoma offers a welcoming community, beautiful scenery, excellent outdoor recreation, and a relaxed lifestyle without the stress of big-city congestion. Residents appreciate:

• Easy, traffic-free commutes
• A lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas
• Nearby lakes, parks, hiking trails, and outdoor activities
• A family-friendly community with a strong sense of connection
• Convenient access to Nashville, Chattanooga, and Huntsville for weekend adventures