Speech-Language Pathologist, Acute

Job Description

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reporting to the Manager or designate, the Speech-Language Pathologist, Acute provides speech-language pathology services to patients in acute care settings. This role includes identifying, assessing, diagnosing and treating communication and/or swallowing disorders and providing relevant consultation and/or education for patients, families, caregivers and staff, within professional scope of practice and in accordance with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC Standards of Practice. This position prioritizes referrals, assesses, develops and implements individual and group treatment programs to ensure optimum patient care for the assigned caseload. In partnership with Community Health Services and/or Long-Term Care, the Speech-Language Pathologist, Acute supports the transition of patients between acute care, long-term care and community settings.

The Speech-Language Pathologist, Acute contributes to the achievement of organizational and departmental objectives, in accordance with established standards of practice, Island Health policies, and work-related processes, procedures and guidelines, including safety and quality protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training And Experience

• Graduation from a recognized university program in Speech-Language Pathology; and
• Current licensure in a practicing category with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

Skills And Abilities

• Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, the public, medical staff and multi-disciplinary teams using verbal, written and computer-based communication. Ability to utilize conflict resolution skills to promote collaboration and effective problem-solving in multi-disciplinary settings.
• Judgment: Demonstrated ability to exercise independent, professional judgment with empathy, tact and integrity when dealing with patients and their families/caregivers. Ability to promote culturally safe, patient focused care by incorporating an understanding of cultural and spiritual beliefs and preferences, patient advocacy and social justice concerns to enhance service provision and decision making.
• Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a complex, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Organization: Demonstrated ability to independently organize work, set objectives, problem-solve and establish priorities in a complex, continuously changing environment. Manages time and resources effectively to consistently complete tasks with accuracy in the interest of ensuring effective and timely delivery of services.
• Equipment: Demonstrated ability to operate equipment including computerized systems, Microsoft Office Suite applications and clinical software programs. Ability to operate other related equipment as required in the specific practice area.
• Physical Ability: Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Link to Full Job Description