Speech Language Pathologists are increasingly at the forefront of identifying the presence of tethered oral tissues and its impact on speech and swallowing skill development. SLPs however cannot make direct recommendations for release, or referrals to a release provider for further evaluation. SLPs and parents rely heavily on the child’s pediatrician to acknowledge evaluation reports and to make appropriate and timely referrals. This session will discuss a unique collaboration that was built between a pediatrician and an SLP to provide comprehensive care in the area of tethered oral tissues. Case studies will be shared highlighting the impact of collaboration between these two important areas of the care team. Topics covered will include breastfeeding dyads, medically complex patients, bottle feeding and difficulty with solids.
Learning Outcomes
The participant will be able to:
Identify 3 red flags for TOTs that pediatricians should consider during patient visits
Identify 3 reasons to consider an SLP evaluation prior to release
List 3 ways to build collaborations with local pediatricians
Timed Agenda
10 minutes: Introduction and Overview
20 mins: Factors to consider as a pediatrician when it comes to tethered oral tissues as a variable in diagnosis
20 mins: Factors to consider as an SLP when trying to build partnerships with a pediatrician’s office
20 mins: Case study 1
20 mins: Case study 2
30 mins: Case Study 3
Content Disclosure: This presentation will focus on treatment methods related to the use of TalkTools® resources. Other similar treatment approaches will receive limited or no coverage during this lecture.
