Tracheoesophageal speech restoration: issues for training and clinical support

Abstract

Objective

The management of tracheoesophageal speech (TES) is complex and invasive in nature. The current study was designed to examine the nature and perceived adequacy of clinical preparation and ongoing training currently available to clinicians working in this clinical field. A secondary aim was to explore associated workplace staffing and supports available to clinician’s across different services in order to consider additional factors impacting service delivery.

Methods

A secure online survey was distributed to individuals who were the main clinician responsible for managing caseloads that included patients using TES.

Results

Responses were received from 32 national centres providing TES services. Results suggested that access to support and training is meeting needs. A desire for more advanced-level professional development opportunities in TES management was indicated.

Conclusion

Issues from this national cohort study highlight positive results regarding availability of access to introductory clinical skills training in this field. Further enhancements could be achieved through development of advance/complex management training opportunities.

KEYWORDS:

• Training
• clinical support
• voice prosthesis
• tracheoesophageal speech
• speech language pathologist
• laryngectomy

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge the Speech Pathology Head and Neck Cancer Google Group members and google group co-ordinator, Penny Stabler.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Elizabeth C. Ward http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2680-8978

Julia Maclean http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-2792

Felicity Megee http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0872-5412