Speech Language Pathologist (Contract)

Position Summary

The Speech Language Pathologist (PRN/Per Diem) provides evaluation, treatment, and education for patients with communication, cognitive-linguistic, and swallowing disorders in a Critical Access Hospital setting, including swing bed patients. The Speech Pathologist works on an as-needed basis to support patient care and ensure compliance with regulatory standards while promoting quality of life and functional independence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients referred for speech, language, voice, cognitive, and swallowing concerns.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on clinical findings and patient goals.
• Provide therapeutic interventions for speech, language, cognition, and swallowing disorders.
• Document evaluations, progress notes, and discharge summaries in compliance with hospital, CMS, and regulatory requirements.
• Educate patients, families, and staff regarding treatment plans, swallowing safety, and communication strategies.
• Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, therapy team members, and other interdisciplinary providers for coordinated care.
• Provide services to patients across the continuum of care, including acute and swing bed populations.
• Participate in discharge planning to ensure safe transition of care.
• Adhere to hospital policies, infection control practices, HIPAA, and all applicable state/federal regulations.
• Maintain professional licensure and certifications as required.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with patients, families, and staff.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Flexibility to provide services on an as-needed/per diem basis.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to work with patients in varying levels of mobility and cognition.

Compensation

• Contract labor, PRN (per diem) pay rate.
• No benefits are associated with this position.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree (or higher) in Speech-Language Pathology required.
• Clinical experience in acute care, swing bed, or long-term care preferred.

Licensure/Certification

• Current Speech-Language Pathology license in the State of Oklahoma.
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Work Schedule

• PRN/Per Diem – Hours and shifts will vary based on patient census and hospital needs.
• May include weekend or holiday coverage as necessary.