Question
Is it always necessary to get a medical clearance before any voice therapy can be undertaken? It was my understanding that a medical exam was necessary only in the cases where the individual had a vocal quality that was judged to be hoarse for more than t
Answer
No. "ASHA guidelines and Preferred Practice Patterns make it clear that all patients with voice disorders must have a laryngological examination prior to the initiation of voice therapy" (Colton, Casper, 1996). Specifically, the ASHA 2004, Preferred Practice Patterns for the Profession of speech-Language Pathology states under Clinical Process, "All patient/clients with voice disorders are examined by a physician, preferably in a discipline appropriate to the presenting complaint. The physician's examination may occur before or after the voice evaluation by the speech-language pathologists. (34-2).
To protect ourselves ethically and legally, we must get this medical clearance before treating the client.
Dr. Harmon is an Associate Professor on the graduate faculty at Mississippi University for Women. She currently teaches graduate courses in Fluency Disorders, Phonological and Articulatory Disorders, and Voice Disorders. Dr. Harmon has been an invited speaker in the area of stuttering therapy with state and regional associations and with Northern Speech Services across the country.
Michelle Harmon, Ph.D
Related Courses
1https://www.speechpathology.com/slp-ceus/course/ethics-of-accent-modification-10505Ethics of Accent ModificationTargeted phonological instruction (i.e., “accent modification”) provided by SLPs may help non-native speaking adults communicate more effectively in their new language, but can also prompt ethical concerns. The nature of accents, their connection to linguistic discrimination, and best practices for ethical provision of elective accent modification services are discussed in this course.auditory, textual, visual
Targeted phonological instruction (i.e., “accent modification”) provided by SLPs may help non-native speaking adults communicate more effectively in their new language, but can also prompt ethical concerns. The nature of accents, their connection to linguistic discrimination, and best practices for ethical provision of elective accent modification services are discussed in this course.
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The nature of induced laryngeal obstruction, including comorbidities and causes, and the speech-language pathologist’s role in evaluation and treatment of this disorder are described in this course. Current diagnostic and treatment practices and research updates pertaining to the condition are discussed.
3https://www.speechpathology.com/slp-ceus/course/20q-pediatric-voice-disorders-diagnostic-897220Q: Pediatric Voice Disorders: Diagnostic and Treatment ApproachesThis course provides the practicing speech-language pathologist with information on special considerations in the treatment of children with voice disorders. The various causes of voice disorders are discussed as well as the treatment of specific types of disorders.textual, visual
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4https://www.speechpathology.com/slp-ceus/course/everyday-ethics-practical-tools-for-10255Everyday Ethics: Practical Tools for Navigating Ethical DilemmasNew technologies, expanding scope of practice, and an ever-growing evidence base create exciting opportunities for our profession but can also create ethical conflicts for practitioners. Utilizing a case review format, this course discusses ethical and legal principles as they apply to speech-language pathology practice with both pediatric and adult clients, and provides useful tools for building an ethically sound practice.auditory, textual, visual
New technologies, expanding scope of practice, and an ever-growing evidence base create exciting opportunities for our profession but can also create ethical conflicts for practitioners. Utilizing a case review format, this course discusses ethical and legal principles as they apply to speech-language pathology practice with both pediatric and adult clients, and provides useful tools for building an ethically sound practice.
5https://www.speechpathology.com/slp-ceus/course/20q-evaluation-and-treatment-speech-872920Q: Evaluation and Treatment of Speech/Resonance Disorders and Velopharyngeal DysfunctionChildren with speech and resonance disorders (hypernasality, hyponasality, and cul-de-sac resonance) and/or nasal emission present challenges for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in all settings. This article will help participants to recognize resonance disorders and the characteristics of velopharyngeal dysfunction, and provide appropriate management.textual, visual
Children with speech and resonance disorders (hypernasality, hyponasality, and cul-de-sac resonance) and/or nasal emission present challenges for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in all settings. This article will help participants to recognize resonance disorders and the characteristics of velopharyngeal dysfunction, and provide appropriate management.
