Registered Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) help to manage changes to language, cognition, speech production, and swallowing. These changes may occur due to stroke, brain injury, cognitive disorders (such as dementia), progressive neurological diseases (such as Parkinson’s Disease or Multiple Sclerosis), or due to prolonged intubation or significant weakness related to critical illness or ICU admission.

Speech Language Pathologists have a Master’s degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited university program. They are registered by the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO), which is the regulatory body for the profession in Ontario.

Inpatient Service

The SLP team provides assessment, treatment, education and counseling to patients and their families to improve their communication and swallowing difficulties. They work closely with other professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team, in providing a coordinated program of care. Services are provided throughout the hospital on the Medical, Surgical, ICU, Alternative Level of Care, and Rehabilitation programs.

Outpatient Service

Outpatient Speech Language Therapy Services are limited to Video Fluoroscopy Swallowing only, for residents of the City of Ottawa West (18 years of age or older). Video fluoroscopy swallowing studies are available to individuals referred by a nurse practitioner or physician, who has privileges at QCH. A referral is required. Requisitions or referrals can be faxed directly to Speech Language Pathology, clearly indicating video fluoroscopy swallow study. 

• Outpatient phone number: 613-721-2000 ext. 3910
• Fax for video fluoroscopy referrals: 613 721-4805

The SLP completes the swallowing evaluation in the department of radiology in collaboration with the Diagnostic Imaging team. Treatments and recommendations about swallowing difficulty are provided by the SLP following the diagnostic imaging test.

Other Resources

Publicly Funded Speech and Language Therapy:

• Home and Community Care Support Service
  People can self-refer to Speech Language Pathology services (communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing).
  Phone: 310-2222 (no area code required)
• Montfort Hospital – Communication Disorders Clinic (located in Orleans)
  Requires a physician referral.
  Phone: 613-746-4621 ext. 4105

Private Speech and Language Pathology Services:

• Speech Language and Audiology Canada (SAC)
• College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists of Ontario (CASLPO)