A script for the telepractice of speech-language therapy and audiology services - what was learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

In this study, a script for the telepractice of speech language pathology and audiology services for adult patients at home, is presented. This tool was developed in three stages and used for a community project during the COVID-19 pandemic. A literature search was performed to identify the facilitators and barriers to remote patient care before implementing telepractice at a primary health care unit. This practical experience led to further discussions about the facilitators of clinical performance and different ways to remotely offer quality assessments and rehabilitation. Divided into three sections, the final script was organized into twenty items. To provide comprehensive patient care, detailed discussions were held about each item to verify the effectiveness and quality of the teleconsultations, for the script to be written. This guide is intended to be used as a tool for speech language pathology and audiology telepractice. However, it must be adapted to the cultural and social realities of the professionals and patients who use it. Additionally, it does not constitute a closed set of practices and procedures and should be updated as new procedures and technologies become available.