Clinical evaluation is an important instrument for the speech-language pathologist (SLP) successful approach. The aims of this article are: to present some issues concerning the SLP's assessment and approach; contribute to the discussions about SLP's clinical practice; provide some input to the considerations about the individual approach that is possible to each SLP, for better interpersonal contact with the patients and their families in accordance with their peculiarities and demands. With SLP assessment it is possible to achieve a functional communication diagnosis and design an intervention plan. Several studies published in other health related sciences show evidence on the need to review the way the relations between health professionals, patients and their families have been established. Clinical assessment has enormous importance in the SLP approach and constitutes one of the first contacts of the patient and their family with the SLP. Therefore, it is important that these questions are considered in this initial stage of the SLP clinical performance. So, it is crucial that the evaluation management and its correlates receive more attention by SLP undergraduate students, professors and tutors. Also, evaluations of the speech-language and audiology treatment progress must be considered at all times.
Health services; Quality of health care; Humanization of assistance; Comprehensive health care