Sima Song, MS, CCC-SLP
Department: Island Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy
Finding Purpose Through Connection and Care
Why did you choose Island Health?
Island Health has given me the opportunity to deliver speech-language pathology services across the lifespan while serving a truly special community. I am grateful to practice in a setting that values high-quality, patient-centered care and allows me to support individuals and their families. Anacortes has a unique small-town feel and tight-knit community that makes it possible for patients, providers and families to genuinely know and support one another.
What do you love about your field of work?
The favorite part of my job is that I get to spend my day listening to the stories of people in my community and having the opportunity to be a meaningful part of their care. I love being involved in early intervention and helping my pediatric patients strengthen their communication skills through child-led play, connection and engaging, play-based activities that empower both the child and their family. I also enjoy getting to know my adult patients and understanding what matters most to them in their daily lives. Guiding conversations around shared goal setting and treatment options is especially meaningful to me. I value collaborating with patients and their families to develop personally relevant goals, educating them about strategies, and ensuring they feel informed and confident throughout the entire therapy process.
Can you share an example of how Island Health has supported your professional growth and development?
When I started working at Island Health, there were not many speech-language pathologists qualified to complete Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS), the instrumental X-ray procedure used to assess and diagnose swallowing impairments. I was able to pursue specialized training to become qualified in completing and interpreting these studies. Expanding this service has significantly increased local access to instrumental swallow assessments, allowing patients in our community to receive timely services and care without needing to travel far from home.
What do you like about living in the Pacific Northwest?
I love exploring the amazing nature we have surrounding us, whether it’s hiking in the Olympic National Forest, eating local produce from the farms of Skagit County or riding the ferry on the way to the San Juan Islands.