Evaluation of speech sound production (eg, articulation, phonological process, apraxia, dysarthria); with evaluation of language comprehension and expression (eg, receptive and expressive language)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Evaluation of Speech Sound Production with Evaluation of Language Comprehension and Expression Common names: Speech Sound Production Assessment, Language Evaluation Medical terms: Articulation, Phonological Process, Apraxia, Dysarthria, Receptive Language, Expressive Language
Summary
An evaluation of speech sound production and language comprehension and expression involves assessing a patient’s ability to produce speech sounds correctly and understand and use language effectively. This procedure helps diagnose issues related to articulation, phonological processes, motor planning problems like apraxia, and speech muscle weaknesses in dysarthria.
Purpose
Addresses: Speech disorders, language comprehension and expression issues Goals: To diagnose specific speech and language disorders, guide treatment planning, and improve speech and language abilities
Indications
Symptoms or conditions: Difficulty with speech clarity, noticeable speech delays, problems understanding or using language, suspected speech disorders such as apraxia or dysarthria Criteria: Recommended for individuals with speech difficulties, those not meeting developmental speech and language milestones, patients with neurological conditions affecting speech
Preparation
Instructions: No specific preparation required for the patient Pre-assessments: May involve completing questionnaires about speech and language history and developmental milestones
Procedure Description
- Initial Interview: Discuss patient’s medical, developmental, and speech/language history.
- Observation: Observe the patient’s spontaneous speech in various contexts.
- Standardized Tests: Administer tests to evaluate speech sound production and language comprehension and expression.
- Articulation Assessment: Assess specific speech sounds for accuracy.
- Phonological Process Assessment: Identify any systematic patterns in speech sound errors.
- Motor Speech Examination: Evaluate for apraxia or dysarthria by examining speech muscle function.
- Language Evaluation: Conduct receptive and expressive language tests to assess understanding and use of language.
Tools and Equipment: Standardized test materials, recording devices, visual aids Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable
Duration
Typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Setting
Performed in a speech therapy clinic, hospital outpatient department, or private practice office.
Personnel
Healthcare professionals: Speech-language pathologist (SLP), speech therapy assistants if needed
Risks and Complications
Risks: Minimal to none Complications: Rarely any complications; potential for slight discomfort or fatigue during prolonged assessment
Benefits
Expected benefits: Accurate diagnosis of speech and language disorders, development of a tailored treatment plan Realization timeline: Immediate, as results can be used to start treatment promptly
Recovery
Post-procedure care: No specific care needed post-evaluation Recovery time: No recovery period required Restrictions/Follow-up: Scheduled follow-up appointments for treatment
Alternatives
Other options: Informal assessments by caregivers or referred to specialized settings for further evaluation Pros and cons: Formal evaluation offers a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis as opposed to informal methods which may lack thoroughness
Patient Experience
During procedure: The patient may experience slight nervousness or fatigue but is typically engaged using activities that make the process enjoyable Post-procedure: Generally mild; no significant discomfort; feedback session to discuss findings and next steps