Speech & Language Pathologist (SLP) - Augmentative Communication Specialist

About DMG:

District Medical Group, Inc. (DMG) is well known as a respected leader in the Phoenix healthcare industry, with a reputation for outstanding leadership, innovation and dedication to the patients and communities we serve. DMG employs over 650 credentialed providers and more than 350 professional/administrative staff as one of the largest physician groups in the Valley.

What Does DMG Offer?

DMG continuously strives for and succeeds in providing a strong and positive work environment through employee appreciation, team collaboration, competitive compensation, mentoring, growth opportunity, and attractive benefits that include:

• A strong benefits package inclusive of Medical, Dental and Vision, and several voluntary benefits, Effective DAY ONE
• Flexible Spending Account option
• Company-paid STD and LTD
• A rich 401(k) with employer match, increasing annually up to 6%
• 3 weeks of Paid Time Off, increasing after 3 years.
• Paid Sick Time
• 10 paid holidays, annually
• and more

About the Role: 

The Speech & Language Pathologist (SLP) - Augmentative Communication Specialist will provide comprehensive communication evaluations, training and support to developmentally disabled individuals and their family/staff in how to use their communication systems to enhance daily interactions.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive, transdisciplinary, culturally and linguistically relevant AAC assessment.

• Collaborates with the funding team on prior authorization and case submissions to expedite the claim process.

• Develop and implement culturally and linguistically relevant intervention plans to maximize effective communication between individuals who use AAC and their communication partners across the life span.
• Involve individuals and family members in decision making to the greatest extent possible throughout the assessment and intervention process.
• Submit reports and SOAP notes within designated time frames.
• Determine the need for further assessment and/or referral for other services.
• Refer to other professionals (occupational therapist, physical therapist, music therapist, vision specialist, special educator, respite care worker) to facilitate access to comprehensive services, reduce barriers, and maximize opportunities for successful AAC use.
• Provide programming support, technical support, trialing of additional systems, and AAC/language development strategies, as necessary.
• Training of parents, teachers, and other team members on the use of AAC
• Consultation and collaboration with other related service providers, teachers, and school team members
• Document progress, determine appropriate AAC modifications, and determine dismissal and follow-up criteria, if indicated.
• Counsel persons who use AAC and their families/caregivers regarding communication-related issues and provide education aimed at preventing abandonment and other complications relating to AAC use.
• Serve as an integral member of an interdisciplinary team working with individuals who use AAC and their families/caregivers.

• Stay updated with the latest advancements in assistive technology and AAC tools and strategies.

Education or Equivalency

• A master's degree within the field of Communication Sciences and Disorders (or related field)
• Valid Arizona Speech-Language Pathologist License
• Valid Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Experience

• Experience conducting AAC assessments/trainings and documenting findings (preferred).
• A minimum of 2 years working in a setting directly related to augmentative alternative communication and/or assistive technology (preferred).

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of subject area and current research based in instructional methodologies, technology and techniques associated with students having communication delays and disabilities.
• Knowledge and familiarity with alternative and augmentative communication principles and strategies.
• Knowledge of available technology (including various assistive technology devices, software, and applications) and potential funding sources related to augmentative communication.
• Ability to teach students in a wide variety of levels and age ranges.
• Ability to work effectively with parents, community and education colleagues in and outside the program.
• Ability to provide training in the use and evaluation of the effectiveness of alternative and augmentative communication tools and strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.

• Bilingual Spanish/English preferred

Employee Health Compliance:

As a condition of employment, DMG requires its employees to comply with Employee Health standards. All employees must provide proof of Tuberculosis clearance as well as Influenza Immunization (or approved declinations).  Specific roles, depending on location/job responsibilities will require proof of immunization or antibodies for Hepatitis B, MMR, TDAP, and Varicella.

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