Supporting Clinical Services

Speech and Language Therapy

UHK Speech and Language Therapy Department is a continually evolving group of dynamic therapists who assess, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing difficulties, and who work on developing and improving services to ensure high quality care to patients in UHK.

Key Services

• Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) work with other members of the multi-disciplinary team to ensure patients attending UHK for planned procedures or emergency treatment receive safe and quality care
• SLTs assess, diagnose and treat speech, language, communication and swallowing difficulties
• SLT provides cover to all wards in UHK including paediatric, palliative and mental health wards ensuring that all patients who require SLT input are seen
• Outpatient service to laryngectomy patients
• Videofluoroscopic assessment of swallow is provided for inpatients and outpatients
• Training for members of other disciplines regarding management of swallowing and communication difficulties. .- Acute stroke assessment and rehabilitation
• Respiratory conditions including patients with tracheostomies in critical care setting
• SLT is a key member of the Frailty Intervention Therapy Team in ED providing assessment and management of patients who are elderly and link with community based colleagues to provide an integrated service with follow up as required
• Paediatric service to Emily and Cashel wards
• Close working with ENT consultant for patients with dysphonia or pharyngeal abnormalities
• Palliative care SLT service to inpatients and outpatients focusing on good oral care, eating and drinking and communication.