Speech therapists are specially trained to diagnose and treat patients with speech/language, cognition, and/or swallowing problems.
The speech pathologist: (some of the specific skills that speech therapist address are listed below)
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evaluates and treats speech/language problems.
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treats patients with communication problems and tries to establish an effective form of communication.
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may work in special group sessions.
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evaluates and treats cognitive problems.
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will perform a swallowing evaluation, if needed, and requested by the physician.
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will identify the safest means for nutrition if swallowing problems are found.
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will assess cognitive function in relation to driving skills and suggest further evaluations necessary to determine the potential for safe driving.