Initial Evaluation

We provide speech therapy for patients who have voice, speech, language, fluency, and swallowing problems. The following information may be helpful for you in deciding to come to our office.

YOUR EVALUATION:

Like most people, you, or your family member, may have never been seen for speech, voice, language, or myofunctional evaluation. But even if you have, it will help you to know what will take place in your first visit. The evaluation visit is one hour long (it may be longer in some cases) and includes the following components:

  • Interviewing about your specific concerns, problems, onset, medical history, severity, and, expectations.
  • Observation and assessment of the client's speech, voice, language, and oral functional abilities.
  • Examination of oral and facial structures for differences in movement and/or appearance.
  • Formal and informal testing to determine a possible speech, voice, language, and/or myofunctional diagnosis and potential goals and outcomes for therapy.
  • Preliminary attempts with therapy techniques to determine responsiveness to therapy.
  • Making a preliminary estimate of the amount and type of therapy that will be needed to achieve the desired goals.
  • Consultation about the problem(s), including explanations about possible onset and causation and course of treatment.
  • Determination and discussion of other appropriate medical and professional referrals or treatment options.

    The initial summary report will be sent to the referring physician and/or other professionals involved in your care. Reports and communication are made only to those individuals that you authorize. Copies are also made available to your insurer on your authorization to obtain coverage for services. You may also request a copy of the summary for your records.

    We will try to make your visit with us as comfortable and rewarding as possible. The evaluation process is normally quite non-invasive and without discomfort. For some types of swallowing or voice disorders, you may need to have further assessment using fiberoptic or stroboscopic diagnostics. Please ask for additional information if you have questions.

    IF YOU FIND THAT YOU CANNOT KEEP OR DO NOT WISH TO KEEP your scheduled appointment, please let us know with at least 24 hours in advance.

    INSURANCE AND BILLING INFORMATION:

    When you make your appointment, you will be asked to provide insurance and billing information. We will bill your insurer for the services that we provide. However, that is not a guarantee of payment by your insurer. You should contact your insurance benefit administration for specific information.

    Home Page