[Dysphagia] Cross Training

[chcky619 at bellsouth.net (Ralph and Patti)]

My remembrance of cross training is that in rural areas there were not enough therapists to meet a need SO----the dance began.  Train fellow professionals to do a much needed job.  It was a get the job done in the best fashion possible utilizing trained therapists.  The battle cry was:  "Do no harm."  I think perhaps that is what has transpired.  I, as an ASHA member, would be the first to say perhaps we are too uptight about the rigors of the profession. No one has certified me to be the "swallowing" expert.  They gave me a degree and sent me out there to care for what was needed.  I have worked to insure the support of physicians and collaboration to enhance what we do.  ASHA didn't give me that.  I earned it.  I continue to lean on and depend on the experts in the field (Irene, Barbara Sonies) and valued voices (Suzanne Morris, Marcia Buckie Virginia Cooper, et. al) and those contributors to this list serve who practice every day and live in the real world. 
This list serve is the voice for what we do.  It is a vlued forum in my life.  As I step down from my soap box, I applaud everyone who contributes and enriches my professional life.  Patti