The economics of speech and language therapy service delivery have received scant attention in the published literature. The paper argues that decision-making about methods of service delivery can be aided by the explicit consideration of the costs and consequences of different programmes.
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of Odyssey Now (ON), a multi-sensory programme designed for use with people with learning disabilities. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was used to assess levels of interaction and engagement in two individuals with severe/ profound learning disabilities. Increases in interaction and engagement were observed during the ON sessions. Both individuals interacted more with their environments during these sessions than they did during other, 'routine' activities. Staff also observed positive changes in the participants over time. These results suggest that the ON programme does have observable benefits for individuals with severe/profound learning disabilities. The methods used in the present study appear to be sensitive to subtle changes in communication which are often difficult to measure. Replication of this methodology on a larger scale would be beneficial, not only in terms of evaluating this programme, but also in determining the effectiveness of other programmes for individuals with severe/profound learning disabilities.Ã Part 1 of each visit constitutes the 10-min period at the time in the day when routine activities were being administered in the adult training centre. Parts 2 and 3 of each visit were the observations made during the Odyssey Now (ON) sessions. The first visit took place during week 1 of the ON sessions and the final visit during week 8.
Speech and language therapists are under ever-increasing pressure to demonstrate the value of their work, both in terms of cost to the purchaser and benefit to the client. The work of these therapists in school settings differs significantly from their work in health-care settings, not least because of strong philosophical and organizational differences between health and education. This paper argues that the methods developed within the field of educational research are amongst the most productive in the investigation of effectiveness. It provides details of a multidimensional model which could be applied in educational settings.
The description of working methods based on reflective and reflexive group processes, alongside more empirical data-gathering methods, is offered as a radical alternative to more orthodox ways of understanding, and attempting to work with change in the NHS.
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