The speech-language pathology (SLP) program at CTS was established in June 2000, on a consultative basis offering in depth assessment and recommendations for the management of individuals with feeding and swallowing/communication impairments. In addition, opportunities for in-service education are made available to care providers, families, and volunteers.
Role of the SLP:
The domain of speech-language pathology includes human communication behaviors and disorders as well as swallowing functions and disorders. The overall objective of speech-language pathology services is to optimize individuals' ability to communicate and/or swallow in natural environments, and thus improve their quality of life. (ASHA, 1-22a/2001)
The Manitoba Speech and Hearing Association (MSHA) regulates the practice of speech-language pathology in Manitoba. Registration with MSHA requires a Master's degree from a recognized university, a minimum of 350 clinical practicum hours, and successful completion of a provisional period of supervised practice.
Program Overview:
The speech-language pathology program is designed to provide comprehensive assessment of communication and swallowing disorders for persons living in long term care and community home settings. Clinicians maintain a high level of training and knowledge about the complexity of communication and swallowing issues facing older persons. Innovative staff education and training programs are available to promote improved understanding of swallowing and communication disorders, as well as assisting others to recognize the signs and symptoms of potential difficulties, and to promote the nutrition and well-being of residents living in long term and community care settings.
Clinicians collaborate with community and tertiary hospital programs where appropriate. Participation on and interaction with community resource agencies, regional and provincial advisory committees, and facility-based teams is an integral feature of the SLP program.
Service Goals:
- To ensure high quality clinical services.
- To maintain a leadership role in speech-language pathology services to personal care facilities.
- To promote effective team interactions through interdisciplinary management.
- To focus on health promotion.
- To promote evidence-based best practice policies and procedures.
- To ensure ongoing measurement, evaluation, and monitoring of outcomes.
- To promote life-long learning, professional development, and continuing education.
- To advance public and professional understanding of speech-language pathology.
