The Speech and Language Therapist will independently assess and treat patients of all ages with speech, language, cognitive-communicative, voice, and swallowing disorders. Managing a caseload of complex clients—including Arabic first-language speakers—the role provides specialized therapy, second opinions, and expert advice, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver effective, person-centered care.
The post holder will also contribute to clinical governance and service development, participate in audits and research, and provide specialist training to healthcare staff, patients, and carers.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake duties in line with the philosophy, business practices, and policies of NMC Royal Hospital - Khalifa City, while adhering to the professional standards and ethics of Speech and Language Therapy.
- Work as an active professional member of the multi-disciplinary rehabilitation team and participate in team meetings.
- Communicate effectively with staff members, health professionals, clients, and families regarding the provision of services.
- Contribute to and participate in education programs for residents, relatives, and staff.
- Participate in continuing education and courses to update Speech and Language Therapy knowledge and techniques.
- Ensure therapy treatments are based on sound evidence of benefit.
- Record and report all adverse clinical events.
- Assist in maintaining a safe workplace by supporting the implementation of safe systems of work.
- Identify and report workplace hazards.
- Participate in the Quality Management System and contribute to continuous improvement activities (auditing, surveys, needs analysis).
- Perform other duties as directed by the HOD or Medical Team.
- Hold appropriate qualifications, professional registration, and a valid DOH license.
- Maintain and update professional knowledge and skills to assess and treat patients with communication and swallowing disorders.
- If holding a dual qualification in Audiology, screen and evaluate the hearing status of residents.
- Develop and implement linguistically and culturally appropriate strategies and tools for patients.
- Engage in strategies to manage Arabic first-language speakers:
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in analyzing and managing Arabic phonetics, linguistics, and social language use (relevant to Emirati citizens).
- Utilize the services of suitably trained translators.
Quality, Health, Safety, and Security Responsibilities
- Adhere to the Environment Health and Safety Management System requirements.
- Follow Occupational Health and Safety and Infection Control Guidelines.
- Understand and comply with emergency preparedness, fire safety, and hospital code policies/plans.
- Comply with OSH and infection control policies, standards, and procedures.
- Work in accordance with documented OSH procedures and instructions.
- Be familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures.
- Report OSH hazards, incidents, near misses, and assist with risk assessments and incident reports.
- Follow waste management procedures and policies.
- Attend OSH/Infection control training programs and participate in mock drills.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Graduate from an approved College or University in Speech and Language Therapy.
- Valid license in country of origin with a HAAD license to practice in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
- Minimum 2 years’ experience in speech and language therapy practice.
- Excellent command of oral and written English; knowledge of Arabic is desirable but not essential.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a hospital group practice and as part of a team.
- Knowledge of services available for aged and/or disabled persons.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Skilled in reviewing procedures and implementing new models of service delivery to meet client and organizational needs.
- Demonstrated commitment to quality outcomes and continuous improvement through staff consultation.
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel.