As a speech language pathologist (SLP), there are many settings in which you can work. One of the most rewarding settings is a hospital. In a hospital, SLPs have the opportunity to work with a diverse population of patients and make a real impact on their recovery. However, getting into a hospital setting can be challenging. Here are some tips for SLPs who want to work in a hospital.
Get the Right Education and Certification
To work in a hospital as an SLP, you need to have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. This is a requirement for all SLP positions, regardless of the setting. Additionally, you need to be licensed by the state in which you will be practicing. This involves passing a national examination and meeting specific requirements set by the state’s licensing board.
Obtaining certification from ASHA is not a requirement, but it can be beneficial. The ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) is a nationally recognized credential. It demonstrates to employers that you have met high standards of clinical practice and professional conduct. The certification process involves completing a clinical fellowship and passing a rigorous examination.
Gain Experience
To be competitive for a hospital position, you will need to have some experience working with patients who have acute or complex medical conditions. This includes experience with dysphagia management, tracheostomy and ventilator support, cognitive-communication disorders, and acute care. Some SLPs gain this experience through internships or externships in a hospital setting. Others work in a skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation center, or outpatient clinic to gain experience with patients who have similar needs.
Network
Networking is a critical component of any job search, and it is especially important for SLPs who want to work in a hospital. Attend local and national conferences, join professional organizations like ASHA or your state’s speech and hearing association, and connect with SLPs who work in hospitals. You can also reach out to hospital recruiters and hiring managers to learn about available positions and the skills and qualifications they are looking for.
Highlight Your Skills
In your resume and cover letter, be sure to highlight the skills that are most relevant to a hospital setting. These may include experience with dysphagia management, tracheostomy and ventilator support, cognitive-communication disorders, and acute care. You should also emphasize your ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team and your strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Specializations
Some hospitals may require or prefer SLPs with specific specializations. For example, a hospital with a large oncology department may seek an SLP with expertise in swallowing disorders related to cancer treatment. Other specialties within the field of speech language pathology include neurogenic communication disorders, voice disorders, and pediatric speech and language disorders. Consider gaining additional training or certifications in a specific area of interest to make yourself more marketable to hospitals that require or value those skills.
Continuing Education
Continuing education is important for SLPs to maintain their licenses and stay current with developments in the field. Many hospitals offer in-house training programs and may require or encourage their SLPs to attend conferences or workshops. Be prepared to invest time and money in your professional development to stay up-to-date and competitive in your job search.
Teamwork
Collaboration with other healthcare professionals is an essential aspect of working in a hospital setting. SLPs will need to communicate and work with physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other members of the healthcare team. Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with others in your resume and cover letter.
Be Open to Different Roles
Finally, it’s important to be open to different roles within a hospital setting. While many SLPs work in acute care, there are also opportunities in rehabilitation, outpatient care, and other areas. You may also want to consider working as a per diem or contract SLP to gain experience and make connections within a hospital. Be flexible and willing to take on different roles and responsibilities as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a career as an SLP in a hospital setting can be challenging, but also highly rewarding. Consider the factors mentioned above when applying to hospital positions, and don’t be afraid to seek out advice and guidance from other professionals in the field. With the right combination of education, experience, networking, and flexibility, you can succeed in finding your dream job as an SLP in a hospital.