(Greensburg, IN) – Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) is proud to share that its Speech Therapy Department has expanded its expertise through completion of advanced medical training in the MedSLP Certification Program.
This program equips clinicians with specialized skills to help patients with complex medical needs, such as assisting patients to manage tracheostomy and laryngectomy care, recovering from a stroke, safely swallowing after surgery, or managing neurological conditions, right here in Decatur County.
In the past, many patients would have had to travel an hour or more to receive this level of care. Now, they can get it close to home, surrounded by their family and support system, without the added stress of long trips to larger cities.
“DCMH’s support made it possible for me to take and complete this program,” said Heather Riga, Speech-Language Pathologist at DCMH. “I’m grateful to now be able to offer this advanced level of care to our patients right here in our community.”
This accomplishment reflects DCMH’s commitment to investing in staff education and expanding services for the community.
“By investing in advanced training, our hospital is investing directly in the community," said Lisa Oldham, DCMH Director of Rehabilitation Services. “It means a child who needs assistance to develop age appropriate speech and language skills, an older adult regaining the ability to eat safely, or a patient learning to speak again after a major health event can all get the care they need right here at home.”
Rex McKinney, President and CEO of DCMH, emphasized how this achievement strengthens the hospital’s mission.
“This isn’t just about one certification; it’s about making sure our neighbors have access to the highest quality care without leaving our community. Every new skill we bring in-house keeps our patients connected to the people and places that matter most while getting the treatment they deserve.”
For more information about Rehabilitation Services at DCMH, visit dcmh.net/specialty-services.
(Decatur County Memorial Hospital press release)
