Authors (including presenting author) :
Ling, CKC (1)
Ng, CI (2)
Affiliation :
Speech Therapy department, Tin Shui Wai Hospital
Introduction :
Telepractice(TP) is an emerging mode of service delivery in speech therapy. Previous research have provided evidence that TP is a feasible, effective and appropriate model for providing speech therapy services to a broad range of patients, including paediatric speech and language disorder cases. The global pandemic in 2020 had caused many carergivers to become ambivalent in attending therapy sessions in the hospital due to safety concerns. At the same time, videoconference had gained wide popularity within schools to continue online learning while conforming to social distancing regulations. In order to placate caregiver’s concern on face to face consultation at the hospital and for continuing care plan, it is imperative to pioneer TP during the pandemic.
Objectives :
The current program adopted a hybrid service delivery model which aims to bridge service gap by: i. Providing service coverage when in-person sessions were not preferred by caregivers ii. Ensure continual treatment and carer education iii. Monitor and maintain compliance to home practice The program also sought to understand caregivers’ opinion and concern about telepractice to facilitate future service planning.
Methodology :
A hybrid mode of service delivery to paediatric speech and language disorders cases was used to facilitate clients’ access to speech therapy service. Children who were under the management of speech therapy service were offered telecare sessions in between face-to-face sessions. All children received face to face assessment and had been given appropriate treatment goals. Telepractice sessions were conducted via videoconferencing. Teaching materials were presented online and interactive games were played. Satisfaction survey was given out after telepractice sessions. Open questions were included to collect qualitative data on feedback of telepractice.
Result & Outcome :
42 clients received TP from March to December 2020.100% carers were satisfied with the service arrangement and quality, 88% would join TP again.38% carers disagreed the effectiveness of TP is comparable to face to face consultation. 67% carers agreed to pay for TP if it becomes charged. Positive feedbacks showed TP provides a safe alternative to face to face consultation in times of pandemic. Carers complemented the better visualization of mouth shape for learning as masks can be removed. They showed appreciation for the continuation of treatment and the elimination of travel time. Although TP has gained caregivers’ approbation, it has its own challenges. Some carers reported they would not join TP again due to the lack of attention of young children and reduced interaction with the clinician during TP. TP can be served as a complementary mode of service delivery. Future work can be done on improving client’s engagement and evaluating if TP is as effective as face-to-face consultation.
