TIMS University Webinar
Speech Language Pathology in the ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic: Using Evidence-Based Outcomes to Optimize Bulbar Management
May 6 at 8:00 PM EST | 0.1 ASHA CEUS / 1 PDH
Course Instructor
Dr. Tabor Gray
Dr. Tabor Gray serves as Director of the Cathy J. Husman ALS Center at Nova Southeastern University and Assistant Professor at the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine. With over 15 years of clinical research experience in bulbar science, Dr. Gray's mission is to improve crucial functions of swallowing, airway protection and oral health for people living with ALS.
Her current research is focused on developing and validating innovative clinical tools and interventions that can slow bulbar decline and improve oral health. Her team’s work is grounded in improving patient care, determining the optimal timing for treatment, and measuring the effectiveness of therapies in clinical trials. Recent projects include evaluating a novel respiratory exercise regimen aimed at improving lung and cough function, exploring the repurposing of FDA-approved drugs to support speech and swallowing, and optimizing oral health protocols.
Speaker Disclosures:
National Institutes of Health NIGMS (R16GM159802)
ALS Association Clinical Grant Program (24-SGP-702),
Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (ALS-RP)
Florida Department of Health (Bitner Plante Initiative)
Nova Southeastern University and NSU Health - salary support
Dr. Gray is receiving an honorarium for this webinar.
Course Information
Description
This course provides an overview of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the role of multidisciplinary care in optimizing patient outcomes, with a focus on the speech-language pathologist. Participants will understand the specific contributions of the speech-language pathologist in managing bulbar symptoms, including speech, swallowing, and secretion challenges. The session will review current evidence and consensus-based outcome measures used to assess and monitor bulbar decline, supported by a case study application. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance clinical decision-making and improve care delivery for individuals living with ALS.
Learning Outcomes
Describe the pathophysiology of ALS and the importance of a multidisciplinary care model, with emphasis on the speech-language pathologist’s role.
Identify and apply evidence-based bulbar screening and assessment tools to monitor disease progression, including speech, swallowing, secretion management, and quality of life.
Evaluate and integrate consensus-based ALS bulbar outcome measures into clinical decision-making to optimize ALS patient care and bulbar prognostication.
Agenda
8:00–8:05 Introduction, learning objectives
8:05 - 8:15 Defining ALS and multidisciplinary care
8:15 - 8:30 The role of the SLP in multidisciplinary care
8:30 - 8:45 Available evidence: bulbar screening and assessment tools to monitor decline and improve prognostication for speech, swallowing, secretion burden, quality of life
8:45 - 8:55 Review consensus-based ALS bulbar outcome tools, ALS case study
8:55 - 9:00 Conclusions and group discussion
Satisfactory Course Completion Requirements
To successfully complete the course, participants must attend the entire live event and submit the post-course survey.
