With the nationwide launch of the new public awareness campaign Identify the Signs by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), PT Solutions Speech-Language Pathologists encourage parents, caregivers, and others to educate themselves about the early warning signs of speech, language, and hearing disorders. The Identify the Signs campaign includes a variety of multimedia resources designed specifically for consumers. The campaign stems from ASHA’s new findings that identify lack of awareness of the early warning signs as the leading barrier to early detection and treatment.
Results of a recent survey of ASHA’s membership revealed that 45% of expert respondents reported lack of awareness as the number one barrier to early detection of communication disorders. Research has shown that early detection is critical to treating—and oftentimes reversing—communication disorders. Delayed treatment can result in isolation, poor academic or career performance, and delayed development.
“As a certified Speech-Language Pathologist, I see how delayed intervention impacts the people of Palm Coast every single day,” Kim Arnold, M.S., CCC-SLP of PT Solutions Freytag Outpatient Rehabilitation says. “ASHA’s campaign has great potential to help the public identify and act on the early warning signs of communication disorders, allowing people to get the most effective treatment for the best chance at improved quality of life. Early diagnosis is good but early intervention is even better.”
ASHA’s campaign consists of English and Spanish television, radio, and print public service announcements disseminated to outlets across the country. In addition, the effort includes an online banner ad and features a campaign website highlighting the early warning signs of speech, language, and hearing disorders, as well as consumer resources for treatment and help.
“Far too many people in Palm Coast—and across the country—suffer from communication disorders. This campaign has the ability to reduce that number by helping people to identify the first signs of these disorders and seek professional help immediately,” Gina Masbad, M.S., CCC-SLP, says.
PT Solutions provides free screenings by appointment, and complete evaluations by physician referral. Find the nearest clinic that offers speech therapy services and schedule your appointment or screening today.
For more information about the national campaign, visit www.IdentifyTheSigns.org.
