Position Summary

• Evaluates, plans, and administers speech-language pathology services to patients in their place of residence.
• Provides services in accordance with physician orders, the individualized Plan of Care, agency policies, and applicable federal and state regulations.
• Promotes optimal patient outcomes through restoration, maintenance, and prevention of speech, language, cognitive, voice, and swallowing disorders.
• Maintains compliance with Medicare Conditions of Participation (CoPs), Accreditation standards, and agency quality initiatives.

Essential Clinical Responsibilities

Assessment & Care Planning

• Performs comprehensive speech-language evaluations, including OASIS assessments at required time points, when applicable.
• Assesses speech, language, cognitive-communication, voice, and swallowing function.
• Evaluates pain status and incorporates appropriate interventions.
• Identifies environmental and safety risks in the home and implements appropriate interventions.
• Develops individualized treatment plans based on physician orders and patient-specific needs.
• Establishes measurable, functional, patient-centered goals.
• Assesses need for durable medical equipment (DME) and adaptive devices.

Treatment & Intervention

• Implements speech therapy interventions consistent with professional standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
• Provides dysphagia management, cognitive-linguistic therapy, voice therapy, communication training, and related modalities as indicated.
• Modifies or discontinues interventions based on ongoing assessment and patient response.
• Develops and instructs patients/caregivers in home exercise programs.
• Utilizes interventions that optimize patient safety and minimize risk of healthcare errors.
• Incorporates evidence-based practice in all treatment modalities.

Care Coordination & Communication

• Obtains physician orders for certification, recertification, and changes to the Plan of Care.
• Communicates patient status changes promptly to the interdisciplinary team and Agency leadership.
• Participates in interdisciplinary team conferences.
• Collaborates with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and other team members to coordinate care.
• Provides timely verbal and written communication regarding orders and clinical findings.

Documentation & Compliance

• Completes clinical documentation within agency-required timeframes
• Ensures documentation supports:
  • Homebound status (when applicable)
  • Medical necessity
  • Skilled need
  • Measurable progress toward goals
• Adheres to all Agency documentation, billing, payroll, and compliance policies.
• Maintains knowledge of federal, state, and accreditation standards governing home health services.
• Participates in internal audits and survey readiness activities.

Discharge & Transition Planning

• Performs transfer and discharge planning in accordance with Agency policy and regulatory standards.
• Provides discharge summaries with objective outcome measurements.
• Coordinates community resources to support continuity of care.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
• Participates in performance improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
• Attends required in-services and continuing education programs.
• Maintains professional competency and licensure requirements.
• Adheres to Agency dress code and professional conduct standards.
• Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.
• Practices in accordance with professional ethical standards.

Regulatory & Qualification Requirements

• Current, unrestricted state license as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
• Graduate of an accredited Speech-Language Pathology program.
• Minimum two (1) years of clinical experience in acute care, rehabilitation, or related setting (home health preferred).
• Knowledge of Medicare CoPs and home health regulations.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Proof of current automobile insurance.
• Current CPR certification.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of speech-language pathology standards of practice.
• Understanding of home health regulations and documentation standards.
• Ability to work independently in a home setting.
• Critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to assess psychosocial needs and respond appropriately.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist patients (up to 50 lbs.).
• Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to work in varied home environments.
• Ability to work under deadlines and manage caseload demands.