S06E12: The Crisis in Speech Language Pathology Services in Newfoundland and Labrador
Summary
Co-hosts Paul, Laura, and Greg chat with St. John's SLP Molly Clark about the growing crisis facing Newfoundlanders in need of speech therapy services.
In this eye-opening episode of ‘Some Stutter Luh!’, hosts Paul, Laura and Greg welcome Molly Clarke, a speech language pathologist, to discuss the critical shortage of publicly funded speech language pathology (SLP) services in Newfoundland and Labrador. Molly shares her journey from starting her own clinic to becoming an advocate for more SLP positions in the public sector. She highlights the challenges faced by families and clinicians alike, such as long wait times, lack of resources, and the financial constraints on new graduates. Molly’s advocacy work, sparked by hearing parents struggle with wait times on CBC radio, has rapidly gained media attention. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of public awareness, parental advocacy, and the need for systemic change to ensure children receive necessary support. The episode calls for action, inviting listeners to join in advocacy efforts, possibly through writing to MHAs (Members of the House of Assembly) or public protests, to bring lasting change to the SLP services in the province.
Original news story N.L. speech therapist says she can’t get a job, despite 2-year waitlists for kids needing help https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/speech-language-pathology-nl-1.7551750
CBC interview https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-47-on-the-go/clip/16150836-speech-therapists-working-remotely-due-local-hiring
Reddit Discussion N.L. speech therapist says she can’t get a job, despite 2-year waitlists for kids needing help https://www.reddit.com/r/newfoundland/comments/1l53bwt/nl_speech_therapist_says_she_canx27t_get_a_job/