During interprofessional practice in a health care setting, what is the primary focus of an SLP?

The primary focus of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) during interprofessional practice in a health care setting is to improve patient experience and outcomes. This involves working collaboratively with other health care professionals to address communication disorders, swallowing difficulties, and other speech-language issues that affect a patient's overall health and quality of life.

In this context, the SLP contributes their specialized knowledge and skills to assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders, tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of each patient. The aim is to enhance the patient’s ability to communicate effectively and to improve their functional status, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes and increased satisfaction with care. Interprofessional collaboration allows SLPs to work with a variety of providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care, fostering a cohesive treatment plan that benefits the patient's overall well-being.