Communication disorders graduates, who gain much of their preparation in the clinic, routinely perform above national norms on licensure and credentialing examinations required in health professions. The clinic provides individual speech, language, learning and hearing assessments and therapy to more than 7,700 individuals annually. Yet, due to space limitations in Duncan Hall, the clinic has a three-month waiting period for prospective clients. A recent study of the clinic s facilities identified several space, ventilation and access deficiencies, which are out of compliance with current national accrediting standards and OSHA, Medicare or Medicaid guidelines. To correct these deficiencies, Appalachian has acquired a building at Rivers and Depot streets in Boone, more than doubling space available for the clinic to 10,000 square feet.
Private support is essential to completing reconfiguration of the acquired facility.
Each room will be equipped with the latest technology and instrumentation. In addition, this space will conform to all handicap and OSHA guidelines. To maintain and increase the clinic s service to the region and state requires on-going support and financial strength possible only through an endowment. Today the clinic s research is better defined and more focused on resolving communication disorders problems than ever before. The clinic s professional staff represents an extraordinary resource.