Medical Speech-Language Therapist
いりょうげんごちょうかくし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Medical, Nursing, and Health Occupations
- Middle : Medical Technicians
- Minor : Speech-Language-Hearing Therapists
Summary
Medical technologist who supports improving the quality of life for patients with communication disorders or eating/swallowing disorders through evaluation and training of language and swallowing functions.
Description
Medical speech-language therapists provide specialized evaluations and training for patients with language disorders, articulation disorders, dysphagia, etc., caused by cerebrovascular disorders, developmental disorders, age-related dementia, etc., aiming to improve communication abilities and safe swallowing functions. They collaborate with physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, etc., as members of multidisciplinary teams to implement rehabilitation plans, and also provide guidance and advice to families and caregivers. They are active in a variety of fields, including not only clinical practice but also schools, home care, nursing facilities, research, and education.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of an aging society, demand for patients with dysphagia and dementia is increasing. Roles in community comprehensive care systems and remote rehabilitation (telepresence) are expected to expand.
Personality Traits
Cooperative / Empathetic / Excellent Observation Skills / Patient
Work Style
Clinic Employment / Hospital Employment / Outpatient Rehabilitation / Special Needs School Employment / Visiting Rehabilitation
Career Path
New Speech-Language Therapist → Senior Speech-Language Therapist → Rehabilitation Department Leader → Department Manager → Specialty Clinical Certified Therapist
Required Skills
Augmentative and Alternative Communication / Medical Record Creation / Speech-Language Assessment / Swallowing Function Assessment / Training Program Design
Recommended Skills
Clinical Research Literature Reading / English Paper Reading / Psychological Care / Team Medical Collaboration
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Requires keen attention to detail to detect subtle abnormalities in patients' vocalizations or swallowing. |
| Communication Skills | Essential to build trust through dialogue with patients and families. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Need to continuously learn the latest rehabilitation techniques and research findings. |
| Problem Solving | Requires the ability to devise training plans tailored to individual symptoms. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Collaboration with physicians and other specialists is essential. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Focuses more on observation and recording than specialized mathematical analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- Passed National Speech-Language Therapist Exam
- Speech-Language Therapist License
Aliases
- Medical SLP
- ST（Speech Therapist）
- Speech-Language Therapist
Related Jobs
- Clinical Psychologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Physical Therapist