Four Ways To Do Your Part: What Is Your Caregiving Profile?

Did you know that you play more than one role in your client's care? Whether you're acting as a bridge, an advocate, or even an understanding ear, much of what you do goes beyond the clinical. Let's take a look at the top roles and responsibilities for audiologists and speech-language pathologists: Which type of caregiver are you?

SELF-AWARE PROFESSIONAL

  • Recognizes that their own beliefs and biases influence interaction
  • Uses cultural competence checklists to examine materials for inclusivity
  • Ensures that clients have their options reflected in response fields on your forms

INSIGHTFUL DETECTIVE

  • Considers the impact of assimilation and acculturation on communication patterns during service delivery
  • Develops appropriate intervention and assessment strategies relevant to the client
  • Seeks additional resources and education to develop cultural competence via continuing education, networking with community members, to fill gaps in knowledge
  • Identifies professionals to collaborate with across disciplines

MENTOR AND MODELER

  • Shows respect for an individual regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, national/regional origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and veteran status
  • Engages in culturally appropriate communication
  • Educates colleagues regarding the impact of legislation
  • Uses active listening, being aware of variances in non-verbal communication, such as eye gaze, proximity and use of touch.
  • Provides clinically appropriate, ethically responsible services

PROACTIVE PLANNER

  • Does their homework and treats each individual based on their unique needs
  • Doesn't anticipate certain outcomes on the basis of stereotypes or generalizations
  • Fosters relationships with other service providers with appropriate cultural and linguistic proficiency, including using a cultural informant or broker
  • Ensures that information presented during counseling is health literate
  • Seeks funding sources for (and engages in) ongoing professional development of cultural competence throughout their career

All caregiving types of clinicians are responsible for providing competent services, including cultural responsiveness during all clinical interactions. Learn more now about your specific roles and responsibilities.

How Can You Help?