Rosemary Martino, MA, MSc, PhD

University of Toronto

Background:
I came to academia after having practiced for several years as a Speech-Language Pathologist with a focus in swallowing disorders. I completed both masters and doctoral level training in the area of Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Toronto. My MSc research surveyed speech-language pathologists on their dysphagia assessment practice behaviours. My PhD research developed a new tool to measure impairment secondary to adult onset dysphagia. In addition, I have been an active member of the Dysphagia Research Society and contributed at an international level to establish best evidence and develop outcome measures specific to dysphagia. I worked with the College of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology of Ontario (CASLPO) to lead the development of consensus derived Preferred Practice Guidelines for Dysphagia. I also worked with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario (HSFO) and the Canadian Stroke Network (CSN) in the development of provincial and national guidelines for the management of dysphagia in acute stroke.

Professional Interests:
My research and teaching focuses on understanding swallowing impairment and its impact on the patient.  I am interested to assess whether earlier identification of dysphagia will in turn initiate earlier intervention, and thereby reduce the incidence of impairment sequelae such as pneumonia, malnutrition and psychosocial issues. Read more about my research interests here.

Recognitions:
I currently hold the Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Swallowing Disorders.

Affiliations:
University Health Network: Krembil Research Institute
University of Toronto: Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Sciences; Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery

Official Lab Website:
Swallowing Lab