HDSA Center of Excellence at Hennepin County Medical Center

Speech Language Pathology

When is it time to see a Speech-Language Pathologist?

If a person with HD is experiencing difficulty with coughing or choking with food or liquid a formal swallowing evaluation may be indicated.A clinical swallow exam can be completed and will allow the speech pathologist to make recommendations for appropriate diet options and/or strategies for safe oral intake.A modified barium swallow study may also

be recommended.A speech-language evaluation will focus on assessment of speech production and language abilities and may lead to an evaluation of the person’s ability to communicate with an augmentative communication device.

Meet the staff:

Sally Gorski, M.A., CCC Speech-Language Pathologist                     Member of the HD Clinic team since 2000 Presented on the topic of Swallowing issues at the HCMC HD Wellness Clinic Presented on Communication options and Swallowing at the MN HD Conference on numerous occasions Participated on planning committee for 2005 MN HD Conference Minnesota HDSA Chapter Board Member October 2005 – present Chairperson of the 2006 MN HD Conference

Contact Information:

Telephone: 612-873-6467
Email:  sally.gorski@hcmed.org

Special Note: We would like to acknowledge and thank the HCMC Service League for providing grant funds to help maintain these web pages.