General Information
The Duquesne University Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic is a component of the clinical education program in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology. All services are provided under the supervision of faculty who are state licensed and nationally certified Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists. Graduate student clinicians provide direct treatment and diagnostic services. Student Clinicians typically treat clients for a semester with new clinicians assigned for subsequent semesters should continued services be warranted. Clinical Instructors generally remain the same and provide direct guidance for all clinical services.
The Clinic assumes primary responsibility for providing and directing the course of treatment. However, individuals receiving services and their caregivers share this responsibility.
Attendance
Regular attendance is a critical component in maximizing treatment effectiveness. There are many more individuals needing services than the Clinic can accommodate. Therefore, clients missing two appointments in a semester may be discontinued from therapy. We understand that circumstances arise which necessitate canceling an appointment. We ask that you inform the Clinic as soon as possible if you are unable to make your appointment as it may be possible to reschedule your session. To assure all clients' needs are met, promptness is required. The Clinic calendar coincides with that of the University. You will be notified in advance of Clinic closures during University breaks and holidays.
Family Involvement
We welcome and encourage caregivers to observe and or participate in therapy. The Clinical Instructor is frequently available to provide information about the session and offer suggestions for home practice. Observers may incidentally see other clients receiving treatment and thus must adhere to the Clinic's policy regarding client confidentiality. Observers agree to not discuss any client's identity or any aspect of those clients' circumstances or care.
Availability of Services
The Clinic is designed to provide our students with opportunities to develop clinical skills and to integrate those skills with academic knowledge. The educational needs of students play a large role in decisions regarding accepting clients for services.
Student Observation
The Clinic is a component of the Department's clinical education program. Undergraduate and graduate students are required to periodically observe a variety of diagnostic and therapy sessions as part of their learning experiences. Observations are guided and coordinated by the faculty. All student observers are aware of their ethical responsibilities regarding confidentiality of information and have agreed to abide by our policy on confidentiality.
Audio/Video Recording
Sessions are typically recorded through a closed video recording system. The recordings are used to assist students and faculty in evaluating the effectiveness of specific therapeutic approaches, as a means of assessing clients' progress, and as a tool in clinical teaching. Clients provide consent to be recorded and confidentiality is assured.
Release of Information
Documentation is an important component of clinical practice. Client records, including daily progress notes, semester summaries and background information are maintained within our clinic. To protect the confidentiality of client records, written permission is required before communicating any aspects of a client's care, in any form, with other professionals or caregivers. Release of information forms are available through the Clinic office and remain valid for one calendar year from date of signature.
Telepractice
The Clinic is pleased to provide Telepractice services. Telepractice enables us to deliver clinical services to individuals at locations outside the Clinic using computer technology. Sessions are conducted live with the student clinician and client interacting in real-time using a secure, confidential internet connection. As with in-clinic sessions, Telepractice sessions are under the direct supervision of our faculty.
Fees for Services
Fees are charged for Clinic services. A fee schedule is available in the Clinic office. The Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic participates with a variety of in-network and out-of-network insurance companies and will bill for services. Not all speech, language, or hearing services are covered by insurance. Our Client Services Representative can help determine if your policy provides these benefits. Non-covered services, deductibles, copayments and co-insurance are the client's responsibility. Client payments are due at the time of service.
Payments
Payment is due at the time of service. The Clinic accepts cash, checks, MasterCard, Visa and Discover credit cards. Consult with the Clinic Services Representative should you have questions.
Fee Reductions
The Clinic has a limited ability to offer reduced fees for patients unable to afford services. A fee schedule based upon family income and number of dependents is utilized. Appropriate documentation from clients requesting reduced fees is required. The Client Services Representative can assist you in the process of fee determination. Duquesne University faculty, staff and students receive a courtesy discount.
Parking
The Clinic maintains parking spaces in the Fisher Hall Lot which is adjacent to Fisher Hall. Parking permits may be purchased in the Clinic office for the duration of your appointment. Persons with special access needs may enter Fisher Hall via the skywalk on McAnulty Drive. Client drop-off arrangements can be made by contacting the Clinic office at 412-396-4200. The Clinic staff are available to assist clients from the skywalk to the Clinic.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Persons seeking services shall not be subject to discrimination on the basis of a person's race, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic history, Veteran status, or disability. The complete University policy is presented as TAP NO. 30.