A LEADER IN SPEECH PATHOLOGY
Vagus Speech Pathology provides Speech Pathology services to adults by way of:
- Comprehensive assessment for swallowing, voice disorders and laryngectomy/tracheostomy care (including Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study)
- One on One therapy
- Care facility assessment and therapy
- Education to patients and family members
- Group education to care facilities for swallowing, laryngectomy and tracheostomy care
Swallowing difficulty (known as dysphagia) may cause coughing, choking, reduced food and fluid intake, food and fluid avoidance or increased time taken to eat meals which may lead to serious health complications or may be a result of a medical condition or surgery.
Vagus Speech Pathology clinicians are trained to provide full comprehensive assessment (including Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study) and treatment of swallowing difficulties. Some swallowing difficulties may require further radiological examination known as a Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS). A VFSS is a live X-ray of the patients swallow and allows the Speech Pathologist to further identify the breakdown in the function of the swallow. Consultation with a medical practitioner will be required before this procedure is booked.
The voice can be affected by general health deterioration, specific medical conditions, vocal behaviour or as a result of surgery.
Some indicators of voice difficulties may include:
- Persistent voice change (strained, hoarse, voice loss)
- Excess throat clearing/coughing/irritation
- Vocal fatigue
- Changes in volume/strength
Before commencing voice therapy Vagus Speech Pathology recommended that patients arrange an appointment with an Ear Nose and Throat specialist or Respiratory physician (depending on the presenting difficulty) in order to determine their vocal difficulties and therapy needs.
Vagus Speech Pathology clinicians have been trained in swallowing and voice restoration following tracheostomy and laryngectomy. A referral from a medical practitioner will be required before assessment and treatment can be carried out. Appointments for this service may be limited to clinic based only.
Anyone can self-refer directly to Vagus Speech Pathology and we also receive referrals from GPs, ENT specialists, neurologists, respiratory physicians and allied health.
Sometimes your speech pathologist may recommend a referral to a Medical practitioner or allied health professional for further investigation.
A consultation with an ENT specialist or Respiratory physician (depending on the presenting difficulty) is recommended before voice assessment, but consultation with a specialist is required before voice therapy can commence.
A referral for a Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study must be obtained from a medical practitioner before the procedure can be booked. A referral from a medical practitioner is essential for all patients with a Laryngectomy or Tracheostomy before assessment/therapy.
