Empowering Practitioners: Leveraging Research to Enhance Outcomes for Children's Health

In the ever-evolving field of speech-language pathology, practitioners are continually seeking ways to enhance their skills and improve outcomes for children. A recent research article titled "Foreign assistance or attack? Impact of the expanded Global Gag Rule on sexual and reproductive health and rights in Kenya" provides valuable insights that can be leveraged to achieve these goals. The study, conducted by B.A. Ushie and colleagues, highlights the multifaceted impact of the expanded Global Gag Rule (GGR) on Kenya's health system, specifically in the realm of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Although the focus of the research is on Kenya, the findings offer broader implications for healthcare providers worldwide, including those in the field of speech-language pathology.The GGR, reinstated and expanded by the Trump Administration in 2017, requires non-US-based NGOs to certify that they will not provide, counsel, refer, or advocate for abortion as a method of family planning in order to receive most categories of US global health assistance. The research reveals that this policy has led to significant disruptions in funding, collaboration, and service delivery, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in Kenya's health system.For practitioners in speech-language pathology, the key takeaway from this research is the importance of understanding and addressing the broader context in which healthcare services are delivered. Here are several actionable steps that can be derived from the study's findings:

• Advocate for Comprehensive Care: The fragmentation of SRH services in Kenya due to the GGR underscores the need for integrated care. Practitioners should advocate for comprehensive healthcare services that address the holistic needs of children and their families.
• Strengthen Collaboration: The disruption of partnerships and referral networks in Kenya highlights the importance of strong collaboration among healthcare providers. Speech-language pathologists should work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and effective care.
• Secure Diverse Funding Sources: The reliance on a single source of funding can lead to significant vulnerabilities, as seen in the Kenyan context. Practitioners should seek diverse funding sources to support their programs and mitigate the risk of funding disruptions.
• Promote Advocacy and Policy Change: The research emphasizes the role of advocacy in mitigating the harmful effects of policies like the GGR. Speech-language pathologists can engage in advocacy efforts to promote policies that support comprehensive and equitable healthcare services.
• Engage in Continuous Learning: The study highlights the importance of ongoing training and capacity building for healthcare providers. Practitioners should prioritize continuous learning and professional development to stay updated on best practices and emerging research.

By implementing these strategies, speech-language pathologists can enhance their practice and contribute to better health outcomes for children. Moreover, the research encourages practitioners to engage in further research to understand the impact of broader health policies on their field and to advocate for evidence-based changes.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Foreign assistance or attack? Impact of the expanded Global Gag Rule on sexual and reproductive health and rights in Kenya.