Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Speech Therapy Goals Assessment
Technical/Medical term: Other speech-language pathology functional limitation, projected goal status at therapy episode outset, at reporting intervals, and at discharge or to end reporting (G9175)

Summary

This procedure involves evaluating and projecting the goal status of a patient's speech-language pathology at the beginning, during specified reporting intervals, and at the conclusion of a therapy episode. It is essential for tracking progress and adjusting therapy plans.

Purpose

This procedure is crucial for people experiencing speech and communication difficulties due to various medical conditions. The primary goal is to improve or restore a patient’s ability to communicate effectively.

Indications

Indications for this procedure include:

• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury
• Developmental speech delays
• Neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease)
• Post-surgical conditions affecting speech (e.g., oral cancer surgeries)

Preparation

Preparation may involve:

• A thorough medical history review
• Baseline assessments of speech, language, and cognitive function
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically needed

Procedure Description

The procedure comprises the following steps:

1. Initial Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s current functional speech and communication status.
2. Goal Setting: Defining realistic and measurable speech therapy goals personalized to the patient’s needs.
3. Progress Monitoring: At predetermined intervals, reassessing the patient's progress towards the goals.
4. Final Evaluation: At the end of the therapy episode, a final assessment to measure the overall improvement and determine any further action required. Tools and equipment may include:
   • Standardized assessment tools (e.g., speech audiometers, articulation tests)
   • Functional communication measures No anesthesia or sedation is required for this procedure.

Duration

Each assessment session may last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of evaluation required.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or hospital outpatient departments.

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved include:

• Speech-language pathologists
• Occasionally, other rehabilitative staff

Risks and Complications

The procedure has minimal risks. Rarely, it may induce stress or fatigue in some patients due to extensive testing.

Benefits

The expected benefits include improved speech and communication abilities, increased confidence in speaking, and better overall quality of life. Benefits might be realized over weeks to months, depending on the individual’s condition and compliance with therapy.

Recovery

Post-procedure care involves:

• Regular practice of prescribed speech exercises at home
• Continuous monitoring and periodic reassessments as needed Recovery times vary; most patients see substantial improvement within 3 to 6 months, but some may require ongoing therapy.

Alternatives

Alternative treatment options include:

• Occupational therapy for alternative communication methods
• Use of communication devices or software
• Pros and cons: Speech therapy is often more effective for natural communication skills development, whereas alternatives may serve as supplementary aids rather than replacements.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may experience:

• Structured interactions with the therapist
• Stimulating and engaging activities aimed at speech and communication improvement Post-procedure, patients might feel satisfaction from noticeable progress and motivation from setting and achieving goals. Pain management is generally unnecessary as the procedure is non-invasive.