Effective collaboration among stakeholders is essential for the success of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions. The study by Uthoff et al. (2022) examined the impact of a complex intervention on collaboration in AAC care, revealing several strategies that can be adopted to improve stakeholder collaboration.
Key Findings
- Enhanced Collaboration with Active Stakeholders: The intervention led to significantly better collaboration with schools and residential or social facilities. This improvement was attributed to more intensive communication and a commitment to AAC implementation.
- Role of Case Management: Case management played a crucial role in organizing collaboration, supporting stakeholders, and ensuring the consistent use of AAC systems. The intervention group reported significantly better support in defining and achieving common goals of AAC care.
- Persistent Challenges with Passive Stakeholders: Despite improvements with active stakeholders, collaboration with passive stakeholders like health insurance companies and medical equipment suppliers remained challenging. These challenges were often due to systemic issues beyond the control of the intervention.
Practical Strategies for Practitioners
Based on the study's findings, practitioners can adopt the following strategies to enhance collaboration in AAC care:
- Organize Joint Round Tables: Regularly convene all relevant stakeholders to discuss and coordinate AAC care. Joint round tables help in defining common goals and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Implement Case Management: Assign a case manager to coordinate care, mediate between stakeholders, and provide ongoing support. This role is crucial for addressing collaboration issues and ensuring the smooth implementation of AAC interventions.
- Engage Informal Caregivers: Actively involve parents and other informal caregivers in the AAC care process. Provide them with the necessary support and information to enhance their commitment and openness towards AAC.
- Foster Open Communication: Encourage open and consistent communication among all stakeholders. This can be facilitated through regular meetings, updates, and shared documentation.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of such interventions on patient outcomes, including pragmatic communication skills, quality of life, and participation. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and research to stay updated with the latest developments in AAC care.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: "Finding Common Ground" – Impact of a Complex Intervention on Collaboration in Augmentative and Alternative Communication Care of People without Natural Speech.
