Social Determinants of Health with Stefanie LaManna

In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle sits down with Stefanie LaManna, an experienced SLP and Associate Director of Healthcare Services in Speech-Language Pathology at ASHA, to discuss the critical topic of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). Together, they explore how SDOH impacts healthcare access, patient outcomes, and the role of SLPs in addressing these factors across various settings, including schools, hospitals, home health, and more.

Stefanie shares her journey as an SLP, her passion for neonatal airway disorders and family-centered care, and her transition to her current role at ASHA. The conversation dives deep into the five key areas of SDOH, practical interventions for SLPs, and the importance of building rapport with families to provide equitable and effective care.

Chapters

1. 00:00 – Welcome and Guest Introduction
2. 01:33 – Stefanie’s Career Journey
3. 03:15 – What Are Social Determinants of Health?
4. 06:00 – Protective Factors, Social Risks, and Social Needs
5. 09:48 – Why SDOH Matters for SLPs
6. 13:28 – Real-Life Examples of SDOH in Practice
7. 17:07 – Practical Interventions for SLPs
8. 22:53 – Cultural Considerations
9. 26:29 – Advice for SLPs
10. 28:27 – Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Resources Mentioned

• What are SDOH? – ASHA’s SDOH webpage
• SDOH: What's My Role? – The SLP’s role in SDOH
• SDOH: Tools and Support

Highlighted Leader Articles:

• SDOH and Pediatric SLPs
• SDOH and Feeding SLPs
• SDOH and Dysphagia SLPs
• Interprofessional Practice in the NICU
• Podcast: Social Determinants and Pediatric Feeding

About the Guest: 

Stefanie LaManna is a speech-language pathologist and certified neonatal therapist with experience working in various pediatric medical settings over the past decade. She currently works as Associate Director, Health Care Services at the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. 

In her role, Stefanie serves as the team lead on all priorities related to pediatric feeding disorder and pediatric health care settings. Her clinical interests and expertise include neonatal and infant airway disorders, and using FEES with the pediatric population.

Upcoming Events

• ASHA Centennial Celebration: November in Washington, DC.
• Visit AMN Healthcare at Booth #3312 to connect with the team and learn more about SLP opportunities.

Champions Care Scholarship: Apply now for the $5,000 Champions Care Scholarship! Apply here

Learn more about the show