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How to Refer to the Adult Team

Inpatient Referral for swallowing problems

Please discuss concerns with the medical team involved and follow the sip test algorithim before referral.

To refer for a Speech and Language swallowing assessment complete the dysphagia referral form and send to the Speech and Language Therapy team.

Inpatient Referral for communication problems

As above, please discuss concerns with the medical team involved. Please use the same referral form for assessment of communication skills.

Community Referral for swallowing problems

Please contact your Consultant/GP to discuss your concerns. He/she will refer you to the Speech and Language Therapy Service at Airedale General Hospital to request a swallowing assessment if appropriate. For further information on how to refer please contact the main Speech and Language Therapy Service on 01535 293641.

Community Referral for communication problems

We have an open referral policy for acquired communication problems. Client/carer/family/friend etc. can all refer directly to the Speech and Language Therapy Service if they have concerns about changed communication skills. For further information on how to refer please contact the main Speech and Language Therapy Service on 01535 293641.

What happens after referral for swallowing/communication problems?

Community Referrals for voice problems

Voice changes that persist should be discussed with your GP. He/she may refer you to see an ENT Consultant in the first instance. After your initial appointment to see the ENT Consultant he/she may decide to refer you on to the Speech and Language Therapy Service at Airedale General Hospital for further voice assessment.

What happens after referral for voice problems?

How to Refer to the Paediatric Team

We have an open referral policy for Speech and Language Therapy Services for children. Parents/carers/Early Years Settings/School staff can all refer directly to the Speech and Language Therapy Service if there are concerns about a child's communication skills.

Early Years Provision – Screening

In response to requests and as a means of making access to our service easier for both parents and professionals, from September 2007 we are offering a ‘Drop In’ service for children up to 5 years of age (Nursery and Reception) at the following clinics in Airedale NHS Trust:

This means that parents and children can attend without a referral. Therefore as from August 2007 it will not be necessary to fill in a referral form for this age group.

Community Referral for feeding/swallowing problems

Please contact your Consultant/GP/Health Visitor to discuss your concerns. He/she will refer you to the Speech and Language Therapy Service at Airedale General Hospital to request a feeding/swallowing assessment if appropriate. For further information on how to refer please see below.

Useful Links

Further information about how to refer to the Service
Referral Form
Referral Checklist
What happens after Referral to the Service?