Telehealth in Speech and Language Therapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology
Shahouzaie, N., & Gholamiyan Arefi, M. (2022).
Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2022.2122605.
This systematic review investigates the use and satisfaction of telepractice for speech-language pathology during the early COVID-19 pandemic.
No funding received
January 1, 2020 to June 31, 2021
Peer-reviewed studies of any design
8
Findings demonstrated that speech-language pathology treatment delivered via telepractice during the early COVID-19 pandemic was associated with significant gains in targeted skills. Specific findings included:<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Two studies reported that telepractice outcomes were comparable to those of face-to-face delivery. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">One study found that aphasia therapy delivered via telepractice resulted in superior outcomes when compared to a workbook home program for individuals status-post stroke. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #333333;">Further research is indicated due to an overall paucity of evidence and the limited scope of this review (i.e., only included studies published from 2020 to June 2021).</span>
One study regarding patient perspectives of speech-language pathology telepractice services during the early COVID-19 pandemic was located. In this study of 205 participants, high client satisfaction was noted for both adults and children receiving tele-rehabilitation services. Further research is indicated due to an overall paucity of evidence and the limited scope of this review (i.e., only included studies published from 2020 to June 2021).
