More on Ellie
Qualifications: BSpPath, CPSP, MSPA
Advanced Practice:
Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES).
This is an extended scope of practice for a Speech Pathologist.
Intricate understanding of anatomy, physiology and neurology to assess
swallowing and the upper airway is required.
Nasendoscopy (small, flexible scope) is used to view the larynx and pharynx
during breathing, voicing and swallowing for more accurate evaluations and
intervention plans.
Additional:
Videofluoroscopy (swallow x-ray) - Completed offsite through the hospital.
Tracheostomy - A breathing tube in the neck. Ellie works in the ICU and specialist clinics
managing people with tracheostomy, to ensure safe and effective swallowing and communication.
Laryngectomy - Permanent surgical changes to breathing and voicing
Areas of Interests:
Adult population: Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), voice, upper airway dysfunction (such as chronic cough), stroke, progressive neurological conditions, head and neck cancer.
Locations:
As well as private work at Errard Specialists, Ellie works in hospitals locally in Ballarat, and in Melbourne.
Work:
Ellie works in a range of different teams - stroke, general medical, oncology (in Melbourne and Ballarat) drawing on knowledge and skills of multiple professions in order to understand, collaborate, and provide best outcomes.
Her work at Errard Specialist Practice is a unique combination of specialists, working together to provide the best possible care required.
Ellie maintains up-to-date knowledge and skills through conferences and workshops, having presented at national conferences herself and regularly attending professional development opportunities.
She presents regularly to audiences within and outside her profession locally and nationally. She has developed online learning modules for university and hospital settings.
Ellie is a clinical educator and university lecturer.
She is currently completing her Master's in Health Leadership and Management.
Ellie is conducting research projects in transdisciplinary approaches to swallowing impairments in respiratory diseases.