Thursday’s Program

This session will utilize a panel discussion format comprised of MSHA Executive Board members and ASHA Advisory Council to focus on issues and trends impacting the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology including reimbursement, legislation at state and federal levels, graduate level training programs, state licensure requirements and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) implementer model. Panel members will detail how these issues directly impact the practices of speech-language pathologists and audiologists and will provide information as to how actions at the local, state and national levels can influence change. Participants will be given an opportunity to ask questions and to contribute to the discussion.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation participants will be able to:

• Identify current legislation at state and federal levels, affecting the professions of audiologly and speech-language pathology.
• Describe reimbursement issues facing audiologists and speech pathologists.
• Identify state licensure requirement issues affecting audiologists and speech pathologists.

Level of Learning: Introductory

This informal session will allow presenters and attendees to converse and interact on topics related to research or clinical practice in speech-language pathology or audiology. Presenters will speak for 10-15 minutes on a research or clinical topic within their scope of expertise and allow 5-10 minutes of discussion and questions among the attendees.

Learner Outcomes:

• Describe the history of Missouri licensure and certification requirements related to the schools.
• Identify at least three issues impacting service delivery.
• List pending legislation impacting our professions at both a state and national level.

Level of Learning: Introductory

Topic 1: Swallowing Disorders in the Academic Setting: A Focus Group on Education and Support for the School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist

Presenters: Tanya Myrick, MS, CCC-SLP & Stephanie Knollhoff, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

Background:  Approximately two million students throughout the United States are currently experiencing swallowing and feeding impairments. Due to the increasing prevalence of diseases and disorders linked to swallowing and feeding complications, this number is expected to rise. When left untreated, students with swallowing and feeding disorders experience limited access to educational curricula and materials, decreased socialization with peers, and significant safety risks. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are the only school-based service provider whose training encompasses assessment and intervention in all aspects of swallowing and feeding across the lifespan and includes numerous etiologies. Conversely, research has demonstrated a lack of education from academic training programs, resulting in a decreased perception of preparation and confidence, and therefore services provided. School-based SLPs make up the largest subgroup within the profession highlighting the crucial need for these professionals to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to support students with swallowing and feeding disorders.

Topic 2: Supporting Students and Early Practitioners From Diverse Groups to Increase Retention

Presenters: Jacob Gutshall, SLP; Jane Webb, SLP; Julie Hoffmann, SLP; Jennifer Stevenson, SLP

The MSHA Strategic Plan includes goals to increase pipelines of opportunity for individuals from diverse groups. We invite you to discuss plans with the trustees of the MSH-Foundation to help increase opportunities for students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to thrive in our professions.

Topic 3: Time Onset for Completing MBSS Post CSE Recommendation 

Presenter: Tedd Masiongale, M.A. CCC-SLP

There is debate about the clinical relevance of the Clinical Swallow Exam (CSE). It can provide valuable clinical information.  Some components of a CSE such as the 3 oz. WST and the Mann Assessment of Swallowing (MASA) are standardized. Qualitative observation and patient interviews are often greatly beneficial. Often speech-language pathologists complete a CSE and recommend NPO pending an MBSS.  Wait times for this procedure can put patients at risk for decline. Often the patient is placed on only IV fluids, which may contain electrolytes/glucose. Some patients may wait 5 days or longer for the MBSS. Without a nutrition source and contributing to decline is inactivity if the patient lies in bed, is not turned, has no OT/PT, is not placed in a chair, or sits on the edge of bed. An NG tube could be a temporary measure but is not always tolerated.

Medicare should dictate that MBSS orders be performed within 24 hours of order as part of safe and best practice for clients. Radiology and speech-language pathology should confer to make this test a priority just as the Joint Commission makes swallowing a priority in acute care. Speech-language pathologists making a request for an MBSS should make sure their orders for the procedure and activated. If wait times for an MBSS are such that they cannot be performed within 24 hours, then the initial first visit with a patient should include a CSE/MBSS combination assessment and eliminate a CSE that then requires a wait time for an MBSS.

Topic 4: Role of SLPs in MTSS

Presenter: Angie DeMoss, MS, L/CCC-SLP

A school district’s approach to MTSS and SLPs roles in that process will be presented.

Topic 5: AAC Services in School Settings: Uses of Chat Editor

Presenter: Kelly Moore

Information on AAC tool called Chat Editor, will be shared with the participants. Participants will learn about how the Chat Editor program that can be used for AAC modeling as well as creating low tech AAC boards and visual supports for AAC users.

Topic 6: Enhancing MSHA Communication: Communication and Public Relations Network (CPRN)

Presenters: Rebecca Koerner, VP for Professional and Public Relations; and Dawn Callahan Dennis, VP for Communication

Come talk to Rebecca Koerner, VP for Professional and Public Relations; and Dawn Callahan Dennis, VP for Communication, to discuss how we can enhance communication to and from MSHA members.  Topics will include content, platforms, the Link and finding ways to make information accessible.  Have you seen our new Instagram and updated Facebook pages? We are creating a Communication and Public Relations Network (CPRN) to seek membership input to keep you informed. Let’s sit, talk, share and communicate.

Topic 7: OTC Hearing Aids

Presenter: Saneta Thurmon, Ph.D. CCC-SLP/CCC-A

The world of hearing aids is about to improve drastically, both with over the counter hearing aids and the more expensive customized hearing aids. As technology continues to improve, we must be prepared as professionals to adapt to this change.  Currently only five states require insurance companies to provide partial or full coverage of hearing aids for adults. Missouri is not one of these states.  The OTC Hearing Aid Act allows more access to amplification for patients who cannot afford the price of customized hearing aids. Because hearing loss affects everything from family relationships and employment to mental and physical health reducing the cost of hearing aids is a priority in our profession.