Irine Chacko, SLP

When I was in college, I traveled to Ethiopia on a medical mission trip. I worked with doctors and nurses to help people who did not have access to healthcare. I noticed that some people had difficulty expressing themselves, and my heart went out to them. It was on that trip that I decided I wanted to help people find their voice.

As a speech–language pathologist, I care for people who have traumatic brain injury, stroke, and degenerative neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. These conditions may cause swallowing difficulties and trouble speaking and understanding language.

I evaluate patients’ speech and ability to express themselves and understand others. I also assess their memory, problem-solving skills, and ability to reason. To check for swallowing difficulties, I conduct an exam and often recommend a modified barium swallow study, also known as a videofluoroscopic swallowing study, or a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. The results of these tests help me create a treatment plan.

I am certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD, a program that trains people with Parkinson’s disease to speak louder so they can be heard when talking with people at home, at work, or in the community.

I also provide stroke rehabilitation. I help people relearn skills and regain their independence, improving their quality of life.

Our patients are cared for by an interdisciplinary team with expertise in neurological disorders. I work with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other speech–language pathologists. We collaborate to create personalized, goal-oriented treatment plans. Throughout treatment, we provide support and education to our patients and their caregivers, and we communicate regularly about each person’s progress.

I want patients to feel confident and not let a disability define them. It is rewarding when a patient has an “a-ha!” moment after practicing a particular skill for a few days or weeks. I love helping patients achieve their goals.

I am conducting research on the cognitive effects of COVID-19. In addition, I was recognized for my advocacy of patients who received treatment for COVID-19 at Glen Cove Hospital.