Developing a Prioritised Agenda to Drive Speech-Language Pathology

Abstract

Health research, driven by prioritised research agendas, is a priority internationally. The aim of this study was to identify areas requiring research within speech-language pathology (SLP) services within health in Queensland. Queensland SLPs in health services were asked to provide up to three areas of practice that required investigation, via online survey. Responding SLPs (n = 47) identified 133 research priority areas. Using content analysis these were grouped into 9 categories: age group; aetiology; area of communication/swallowing; aspect of service provision; service delivery model/approach; professional level; emerging specialised areas of practice/expanded scope of practice; outcomes and research questions; and place of service. SLPs identified a wide range of areas within health services in Queensland they felt required a prioritised research agenda. While many of these research priorities were in traditional practice areas, some represented emerging fields. The diversity in responses highlights challenges for developing a prioritised local health research agenda.

Keywords:

• Research Agenda
• Research Priority
• Survey

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank all of the SLPs who gave up their valuable time to participate in the project. This project was supported by a Queensland Health Metro South Research Support Scheme Small Grant.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Emma Finch

Emma Finch is a conjoint senior research fellow in speech pathology between The University of Queensland and the Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Elizabeth C. Ward

Elizabeth C. Ward is professor at the University of Queensland and director of the Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health.

Linda Worrall

Linda Worrall is an emeritus professor of speech pathology at the University of Queensland.

Kirstine Shrubsole

Kirstine Shrubsole is a speech pathology academic (teaching and research role) at Southern Cross University, Gold Coast Campus.

Bena Brown

Bena Brown is the principal allied health research fellow in cancer and advanced speech pathologist, Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Petrea Cornwell

Petrea Cornwell is associate professor of speech pathology and head of discipline at Griffith University.

Anne E. Hill

Anne E. Hill is a senior lecturer in speech pathology at The University of Queensland.

Annie J. Hill

Annie J. Hill is a senior postdoctoral researcher with the CRE Aphasia Recovery and Rehabilitation, The University of Queensland.

Tania Hobson

Tania Hobson the executive director allied health at Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service. She has qualifications in speech pathology and business and is currently enrolled in her PhD.

Tanya Rose

Tanya Rose is a senior lecturer in speech pathology at The University of Queensland.

Ashley Cameron

Ashley Cameron is a speech pathologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and the AH-TRIP initiative statewide program lead.

Nerina Scarinci

Nerina Scarinci is an associate professor and head of speech pathology at The University of Queensland