The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telerehabilitation across various healthcare sectors, including the U.S. Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The recent research article titled "Providers' Shift to Telerehabilitation at the U.S. Veterans Health Administration During COVID-19: Practical Applications" offers valuable insights that can be adapted to enhance pediatric speech therapy services. This blog aims to distill key findings from the research and provide practical strategies for practitioners to improve their telerehabilitation skills.
Key Findings from the Research
The study conducted by Kreider et al. (2022) identified several critical themes for successful telerehabilitation implementation:
- Willingness to Give Telerehabilitation a Chance
- Creativity and Adaptability
- Adapting Assessments and Interventions
- Role and Workflow Adaptations
- Availability of Informal, In-Person Support
- Shifts in Expectations by Patients and Providers
- Benefit and Anticipated Future of Telerehabilitation
Practical Strategies for Pediatric Speech Therapy
1. Embrace Creativity and Adaptability
In pediatric speech therapy, creativity is crucial. Adapt activities to fit the child's home environment. Use household items like toys and books to make sessions engaging and relevant. Develop interactive games that can be played virtually to maintain the child's interest.
2. Adapting Assessments
Standardized assessments may need modifications for virtual sessions. Use parent-reported measures and video observations to gather essential data. Ensure that parents are well-prepared to assist in the assessment process by providing clear instructions and materials in advance.
3. Role and Workflow Adaptations
Telerehabilitation requires new workflows. Create checklists and templates to streamline session planning and documentation. Allocate time for technology checks and provide parents with troubleshooting guides to minimize disruptions during sessions.
4. Leveraging Informal Support
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in the success of telerehabilitation. Encourage their active participation in sessions. Provide them with educational materials and involve them in setting up and conducting activities. Their support can significantly enhance the child's progress.
5. Managing Expectations
Set clear expectations with parents and children about the goals and processes of telerehabilitation. Regularly communicate progress and adjust plans based on feedback. Empower parents to take an active role in their child's therapy by providing them with tools and strategies for practice between sessions.
Future of Telerehabilitation in Pediatric Speech Therapy
The shift to telerehabilitation has opened new avenues for delivering speech therapy services. It offers flexibility, reduces travel time, and allows for more frequent and consistent sessions. As we move forward, integrating telerehabilitation with in-person visits can provide a comprehensive approach to pediatric speech therapy.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Providers' Shift to Telerehabilitation at the U.S. Veterans Health Administration During COVID-19: Practical Applications.
