The focus of  voice therapy program is VOCAL REHABILITATION .The program helps in restoration of voice to a level of function that will enable the client to fulfil daily voice and communication needs.

What is a voice disorder?

A voice disorder is characterised by abnormal production or absence of voice quality, pitch, loudness, resonance or duration, which is inappropriate for an individual‘s age and or sex (Ref: van Riper)

 

Indicators of a voice disorder

Effortful talking

Sore throat after talking

Strained, tired voice

Breathiness, hoarseness

Voice breaks

Limitations in pitch change

Limitations in loudness and projection of Voice

Difficulty in making oneself heard over background noise

 

Any condition that can affect the performance of the voice producing organ , the voice box/larynx can cause a voice disorder.

Before commencing the voice rehabilitation program the Speech Therapist will take a detailed case history, do an analysis of voice parameters. An appropriate referral to the the required medical professional will be undertaken by the Speech-Language Pathologist.

 

Voice therapy program:

Learning how the voice works

How the voice can be injured

Vocal hygiene program

Vocal and respiratory exercises

Home practice

 

 

Duration of vocal rehabilitation program will depend on:

Origin

Severity

Co-occurring medical therapy

Patients commitment to practice and generalisation of new vocal behaviours

Medicare items for speech pathology:

General Practitioner can make a referral for speech pathology sessions under the EPC (Enhanced Primary Care Plan) or the Chronic disease management Plan ,for children and adults with chronic care needs. Medicare rebate is available for 5 speech therapy sessions per calendar year.

rebates may also be claimed from your private health provider, depending on the extras covered by the health fund. To find out more about the rebates, you may contact the private health provider.

Medicare and private health insurance rebates may not be claimed for the same speech therapy session.

Rebates for Medicare and private health insurance can be claimed via the HICAPS at the speech Clinic.