comprehensive speech-language pathology assessment may include any and all of the following components

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- administering standardized and/or criterion referenced tools to compare individuals with their peers

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- reviewing medical records to determine relevant health, medical, and pharmacological

information

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- interviewing individuals and/or family to obtain case history to determine specific concerns

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- utilizing culturally and linguistically appropriate assessment protocols

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- engaging in behavioural observation to determine the individual’s skills in a naturalistic

setting/context

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- diagnosing communication and swallowing disorders

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- using endoscopy, videofluoroscopy, and other instrumentation to assess aspects of voice,

resonance, velopharyngeal function and swallowing

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- documenting assessment and trial results for selecting AAC interventions and technology,

including speech generating devices (SGDs)

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- documenting assessment results, including discharge planning

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- formulating impressions to develop a plan of treatment and recommendations; and discussing eligibility and criteria for dismissal from early intervention and school based services

treatment consists of designing, implementing and documenting delivery of service in accordance with best available practice appropriate to the practice setting, including

 

- providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services

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- integrating the highest quality available research evidence with practitioner expertise and

individual preferences and values in establishing treatment goals

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- utilizing treatment data to guide decisions and determine effectiveness of services

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- integrating academic materials and goals into treatment

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- delivering the appropriate frequency and intensity of treatment utilizing best available practice

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- engaging in treatment activities that are within the scope of the professional’s competence

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- utilizing AAC performance data to guide clinical decisions and determine the effectiveness of

treatment

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- collaborating with other professionals in the delivery of services

may include the following:

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- educating the individual, family, and related community members about communication or

feeding and swallowing disorders

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- provide support and/or peer to peer groups for individuals with disorders and their

families

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- providing individuals and families with skills that enable them to become self advocates

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- discussing, evaluating, and addressing negative emotions and thoughts related to communication or feeding and swallowing disorders

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- referring individuals with disorders to other professionals when counselling needs fall outside of those related to (a) communication and (b) feeding and swallowing

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- educating stakeholders regarding interprofessional education and practice principles and competencies

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- partnering with other professions/organizations to enhance the value of speech-language

pathology services

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- sharing responsibilities to achieve functional outcomes

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- consulting with other professionals to meet the needs of individuals with communication and

swallowing disorders

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- serving as case managers, service delivery coordinators, members of collaborative and patient

care conference teams

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- empowering the individual and family to make informed decisions related to communication or feeding and swallowing issues