Expert Assessments (Medico-Legal & Medical Malpractice Assessments)

Jennifer Horton, Owner of Lear Communication and Speech-Language Pathologist, completes medical-legal assessments (Defense and Plaintiff), participates on multidisciplinary catastrophic assessment teams and offers assessments involving medical malpractice cases. Jennifer is a treating clinician as well and as such, she offers a well-rounded assessment based on over 20 years of experience with a breadth of knowledge in the clinical field of speech-language pathology.

How Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Assist with Catastrophic Impairment Assessments?

In Accordance with AMA Guides, we provide valuable clinical impressions for use in Whole Person Impairment rating by identifying and commenting on any impairments related to the field of Speech-Language Pathology.  The assessing S-LP will identify any impairments using:  AMA Guides, Chapter 4, Table 1 (Aphasia); AMA Guides, Chapter 9, Table 6 (Mastication/ Deglutition), Table 7 (Speech/Voice), and AMA Guides, Chapter 14. (Mental/Behavioral- supporting evidence related to communication abilities).  

 How Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Assist with Medical-Malpractice Assessments?

SLPs are highly trained in both normal and disordered speech and language development.  SLPs work with children who have complex medical needs, many benefiting from the use of Assistive or Augmentative Communication  devices (AAC) and who may or may not have swallowing impairments. When communication is impaired, a child is impacted socially, educationally  and vocationally. A speech-language pathologist will determine the speech-language profile, provide an opinion on the characteristics of that profile that could assist with determining the nature of impairments, opine on the impacts and the needs for future care planning.

 Can a Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) Assist with a Medical-Legal Matter?

Yes. A VFSS is an instrumental exam completed under Xray, allowing the SLP to objectively and accurately evaluate 17 components of a swallow, revealing any impairment that leads to reduced safety of efficiency in eating by oral means. If the person is determined to require a modified diet, this is an important piece of information and is captured under the AMA Guides, Chapter 9.

 Can every Registered Speech-Language Pathologist complete Expert Assessments

According to CASLPO (2015), “ SLPs must ensure that they have the required competencies and practice within their area of competence “as determined by their education, training and professional experience” (Code of Ethics – 2011).

 For Jennifer’s complete CV, please refer to our staff page. You can contact Jennifer at jennifer.horton@learcomm.ca or by calling 905-667-1441.