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DRMC’s Speech Therapy Inpatient and Outpatient Departments consist of a highly skilled staff of 5 (4 full-time, 1 PRN). Each therapist has their Master’s Degree and their Certificate of Clinical Competency. All of the therapists are also certified in Vital Stim (swallowing therapy). These 5 therapists are also licensed by the state of Pennsylvania and the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA).

Speech Language Pathologists provide care in a number of areas. They are goal oriented. Their main goals are return of function and quality of life. They help patients with all facets of communication and swallowing, as well as providing cognitive therapy. They also treat a wide population from pediatrics to geriatrics.

Specialty areas include:

Vital Stim (neuromuscular electrical stimulation/NMES) this is a relatively new approach – is utilizing electrical stimulation, therapeutic exercise and compensatory strategies to improve swallowing and the quality of life for many stroke and neurologically impaired patients. Several of the therapists at DRMC also specialize in pediatric Vital Stim.

Modified Barium Swallow Studies:
Video fluoroscopy is the study of swallowing and is completed by an SLP in the radiology department. The study is observed from the oral stage through the esophageal stage. Based on the results of these studies, the SLP begins the therapy process which may include Vital Stim and diet modification. Again, this is an area in which pediatric and adult are served.

Communication
We provide specialized treatment in enhancing the total communication system to reflect functional needs. This can be achieved through verbal, sign, writing and/or AAC (augmentative alternative communication).

We also treat:

* Traumatic Brain Injury
* Cerebral Vascular Accident (Stroke)
* Cognitive/Communication Disorders
* Aphasia
* Autism
* Anomia
* Parkinson’s Disease
* Multiple Sclerosis
* ALS
* Dysphagia
* Articulation Deficits
* Language Disorders
* Voice Disorders
* Developmental Delays

Health Care Plan Coverage
Most health care plans cover physician’s services related to the causes of or complications associated with communication and swallowing disorders.