Optimizing Patient Outcomes: Better Speech and Hearing Month

Premier Pulse     May 2026 May 1, 2026

By: Jennifer Jones, PT, MHA, manager outpatient rehabilitation and sports medicine, UVMC 

May marks Better Speech and Hearing Month, a time to highlight the critical role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in treating complex communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders. At Premier Health, our certified specialists provide evidence-based interventions for patients navigating the challenges of stroke, traumatic brain injury, and progressive neurological conditions.

Advanced Diagnostics and Specialized Care

Premier Health SLPs utilize gold-standard diagnostic tools to develop customized treatment plans that prioritize functional gains. Key clinical offerings include:

  • Comprehensive Swallowing Evaluations: Advanced assessment via Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS) and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) to ensure patient safety and optimal nutrition.
  • Cognitive-Communication Therapy: Targeted interventions for attention, memory, and executive function to improve daily independence.
  • Voice and Airway Management: Specialized dysphonia and voice care for post‑surgical, professional voice, and head and neck cancer patients, including Manual Lymphatic Drainage and LSVT LOUD.
  • Neuro-Rehabilitative Support: Longitudinal care for patients with Parkinson’s, ALS, MS, and dementia.

Home Health Speech Therapy

For patients who are homebound or require therapy in a home setting, Premier Health’s Fidelity Health Care provides expert speech-language pathology services. Our home health SLPs work closely with referring physicians to deliver individualized care plans that improve quality of life and promote safety within the home.

Outpatient Referral Information and Locations

Referrals can be made via Epic order or by faxing the rehabilitation referral form directly to the preferred location:

  • Atrium Medical Center (Middletown) | Fax: (513) 974-4058 | Phone: (513) 974-4523(513) 974-4523
  • Fidelity Home Health Referrals: Fax (937) 208-6401 or call(937) 208-6400(937) 208-6400.
  • Miami Valley Hospital (Dayton) | Fax: (937) 208-4794 | Phone: (937) 208-8714(937) 208-8714
  • Miami Valley Hospital North (Englewood) | Fax: (937) 734-5798 | Phone: (937) 734-5720(937) 734-5720
  • Premier Health Center – Brown Street (Dayton) | Fax: (937) 208-7725 | Phone: (937) 208-6090(937) 208-6090
  • Upper Valley Medical Center (Troy) | Fax: (937) 440-4396 | Phone: (937) 440-4840(937) 440-4840

Back to the May 2026 Premier Pulse