Rapid transition to telepractice across the lifespan in speech-language pathology: Insight from a survey of clinicians in Canada

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to describe the experiences and needs of Canadian speech-language pathologists (SLPs) who conducted communication assessments via telepractice across the lifespan during the first year (2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

The present study consisted of an online survey that aimed to capture both quantitative aspects of telepractice-based communication assessment and the qualitative experience of shifting to telepractice. One hundred sixty-eight practicing SLPs across Canada participated in the survey, between September 2020 and January 2021. Quantitative results were analysed using descriptive statistics while open-ended responses were analysed using thematic analysis.

Result

SLPs identified challenges and opportunities relating to client and family engagement, access to and knowledge of technology, and the reliability of assessment tools. SLPs also identified a future need for online assessment materials and training, such as materials adapted for different communication needs (e.g. augmentative and alternative communication).

Conclusion

The present study contributes to a growing understanding worldwide of potential benefits and challenges related to telepractice, fuelled by the necessary shift in practices in our field during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results provide direction for continuing to build a valid and inclusive approach to telepractice in the future.

Keywords:

• eHealth
• telepractice
• speech and language pathology
• COVID-19
• assessment

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the SLPs from across Canada who participated in this survey, during a time when they were working in challenging conditions. Funding for this work was provided by the Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 Various terms are used to describe the online delivery of speech-language services (e.g. telehealth, telepractice, virtual care); here we will use the term “telepractice” to align with the terminology used by regional and national bodies in a number of countries (e.g. Speech-Language & Audiology Canada [SAC], American Speech-Language- Hearing Association [ASHA], Speech Pathology Australia).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Alberta College of Speech-Langauge Pathology and Audiology.