Speech Language Pathologist

Job Overview

The Speech and Language Pathologist is responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with speech, language, voice, communication, and swallowing disorders. The role plays a vital part in supporting long-term care patients, including those with neurological, developmental, and acquired conditions, to maximize their functional communication and swallowing abilities, thereby enhancing their quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess and diagnose communication, speech, language, and swallowing disorders in patients across all age groups.
• Develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs, goals, and medical condition.
• Deliver evidence-based therapy for patients with communication difficulties (e.g., aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia, stuttering, voice disorders).
• Manage and treat swallowing disorders (dysphagia), including conducting bedside and instrumental swallowing assessments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, and psychologists) to ensure comprehensive patient care.
• Educate and counsel patients, families, and caregivers on therapy goals, home programs, and communication strategies.
• Document assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and outcome measures accurately in the hospital's medical record system.
• Participate in case conferences, family meetings, and care planning discussions.
• Support training and development of nursing staff and caregivers in managing communication and swallowing issues.
• Stay up to date with advances in speech-language pathology practices and participate in continuous professional development.
• Ensure compliance with Bahrain health regulations, ethical standards, and hospital policies.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Speech and Language Pathology / Speech Therapy from a recognized university.
• Valid professional license/registration to practice in Bahrain (NHRA license) or eligibility to obtain one.
• Minimum 3 years' experience as a Speech and Language Pathologist, preferably in a hospital or long-term care setting.
• Experience in managing adult neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's, dementia) is highly desirable.

Key Skills

• Strong diagnostic and clinical reasoning skills.
• Empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to educate and support patients, caregivers, and staff effectively.
• Team player with collaborative approach in a multidisciplinary care environment.
• Commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous learning.