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Telehealth for Dysphagia: Enhancing Skills Through Data-Driven Insights

Telehealth for Dysphagia: Enhancing Skills Through Data-Driven Insights
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telehealth across various healthcare disciplines, including speech-language pathology (SLP). A recent study titled "Telehealth Management of Dysphagia in Adults: A Survey of Speech Language Pathologists Experiences and Perceptions" offers valuable insights into the use of telehealth for dysphagia management. This blog will discuss the key findings of the study and how practitioners can leverage these insights to improve their telehealth skills.

Key Findings

The study surveyed 235 SLPs to explore telehealth usage patterns, clinician confidence, and perceived effectiveness in managing dysphagia during the pandemic. Here are some significant findings:

Improving Telehealth Skills

To improve telehealth skills for dysphagia management, practitioners can consider the following recommendations based on the study's findings:

1. Leverage Experience and Training

Years of experience with dysphagia management and prior telehealth experience were significantly associated with higher usage rates. Engaging in specific telehealth training and utilizing published guidelines can enhance clinician confidence and effectiveness.

2. Utilize Facilitators

Facilitators, such as caregivers or nurses, can assist with technology setup, food preparation, and administering bolus trials. Their presence can significantly enhance the effectiveness of telehealth sessions.

3. Address Technological Barriers

Investing in robust technological infrastructure and providing patients with the necessary equipment can mitigate many challenges. Additionally, offering training to both clinicians and patients can improve digital literacy and ease of use.

4. Advocate for Reimbursement Policies

Reimbursement restrictions were a significant barrier. Advocacy at both state and federal levels is essential to ensure that telehealth services are reimbursed, making them a viable long-term option.

Future Directions

The study highlights the potential for telehealth to become an integrated model of care for dysphagia management. Future research should focus on developing smarter, more accessible telehealth platforms and exploring the experiences of multiple stakeholders, including patients and caregivers.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Telehealth Management of Dysphagia in Adults: A Survey of Speech Language Pathologists Experiences and Perceptions.

Citation: Sevitz, J. S., Bryan, J. L., Mitchell, S. S., Craig, B. A., Huber, J. E., Troche, M. S., & Malandraki, G. A. (2022). Telehealth Management of Dysphagia in Adults: A Survey of Speech Language Pathologists Experiences and Perceptions. Dysphagia. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-022-10544-z
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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