Speech Pathology

What is a Speech Pathologist?

Speech Pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication disorders, including difficulties with speech, language, swallowing, fluency and voice.

They work with people who have difficulty communicating because of developmental delays, stroke, brain injuries, learning disability, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia and hearing loss, as well as other problems that can affect speech and language. People who experience difficulties swallowing food and drink safely can also be helped by a Speech Pathologist.

 

Residential Care Setting Support

Who would benefit from this service?

Clients in residential settings requiring assessment and management of their swallowing ability.

 

Outpatients 

Who would benefit from this service?

• Clients who have communication disorders, including difficulties with speech, language, swallowing, fluency and voice.

• Clients who are having difficulties with eating and drinking, speaking, reading or writing following a recent or past neurological event.

 

Who is eligible?

• Clients who are currently living at home and are able to attend centre-based activities at Leongatha or Korumburra Hospitals.

 

Preschool Outpatient Clinic

Who would benefit from this service?

Children from birth to preschool age who have swallowing or communication needs such as:

• Excessive saliva

• Delayed speech sound development

• Delayed language development

• Stuttering

• Voice

• Pragmatic/social skills

 

This service does not see school age children and is not a multidisciplinary or “Early Intervention” program. 

 

How do I access the speech pathology service?

Referrals are received from clients and/or their carers. We also accept referrals from teachers, doctors, nurses and other health care professionals.

 

Referrals can be via the telephone, fax or post as follows:

Phone:     5654 2737

Email:     gateway@gshs.com.au

Fax:         5667 5634

Address: Speech Pathology, GSHS, Private Bag 13, Leongatha 3953.

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For general speech pathology advice:

Phone:      5667 5540

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What are the costs?

There are costs associated in the provision of Speech Pathology Services. Please contact your Speech Pathologist for further details.