Speech Pathology and Audiology Services

Section 350 Section 350.1040  Speech Pathology and Audiology Services a)         Speech pathology and audiology services shall be provided to meet the needs of the residents through the following:  (B) 1)         Direct contact between speech pathologists, audiologists and residents. 2)         Working with other personnel, such as teachers and direct care staff, in implementing communication improvement programs. b)         Speech pathology and audiology services available to the facility shall include the following: 1)         Screening and evaluation of residents with respect to speech and hearing functions. 2)         Comprehensive audiological assessment of residents, as indicated by screening results, to include tests of puretone air and bone conduction, speech audiometry, and other procedures, as necessary, and to include assessment of the use of visual cues. 3)         Assessment of the use of amplification. 4)         Provision for procurement, maintenance, and replacement of hearing aids, as specified by a qualified audiologist. 5)         Comprehensive speech and language evaluation of residents, as indicated by screening results, which include appraisal of articulation, voice, rhythm and language. 6)         Participation in the continuing interdisciplinary evaluation of individual residents for purposes of initiation, monitoring, and follow-up of individualized habilitation programs. 7)         Treatment services interpreted as an extension of the evaluation process that include: A)        Direct counseling with residents. B)        Consultation with appropriate staff for speech improvement and speech education activities. C)        Collaboration with appropriate staff to  develop specialized programs for developing the communication skills of individuals in comprehension (for example, speech, reading, auditory training, and hearing aid utilization) as well as expression (for example, improvement in articulation, voice, rhythm, and language). 8)         Participation in inservice programs for direct care and other staff. 9)         Report evaluation and assessment results accurately and systematically, and in such manner as to, where appropriate, provide information useful to other staff working directly with the resident and to provide evaluative and summary reports for inclusion in the resident's unit record. 10)         Continuing observations of treatment progress shall be recorded accurately, summarized, communicated and utilized in evaluating progress. c)         There shall be provided sufficient, appropriately qualified staff, and necessary supporting personnel, to carry out the various speech pathology and audiology services, in accordance with stated goals and objectives.  (B) d)         Staff who assume independent responsibilities for clinical services shall meet the requirements as defined in Section 350.330.  (B) e)         Adequate, direct and continuing supervision shall be provided personnel, volunteers, or supportive personnel utilized in providing clinical services. f)         Space, facilities, equipment, and supplies shall be adequate for providing efficient and effective speech pathology and audiology services.