Vaishali V. Paswan
- Assistant Professor, Kasturba Nursing College, Sevagram, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
In the digital age, advancements in technology have revolutionized various aspects of healthcare, including speech therapy. This study explores the emergence and evolution of telepractice and remote interventions in speech therapy. Telepractice, interchangeably labelled as teletherapy or telehealth, denotes providing speech therapy services remotely using telecommunication technology. Its incorporation into speech therapy has broadened service accessibility, notably benefiting underserved or remote locales. Moreover, it has ensured uninterrupted care delivery during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This integration has been pivotal in overcoming geographical barriers, enabling individuals to access essential speech therapy without physical proximity constraints. Consequently, telepractice has emerged as a crucial tool in maintaining service provision continuity and addressing healthcare disparities, particularly evident during unprecedented events like the global health crisis triggered by COVID-19. This study highlights the benefits, challenges, and considerations associated with telepractice in speech therapy, including technological requirements, regulatory guidelines, and ethical considerations. Furthermore, it examines the effectiveness of remote interventions in addressing various speech and language disorders across different age groups and populations. Through a synthesis of current research and clinical practices, this study provides insights into the potential of telepractice to enhance the accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness of speech therapy services in the digital age.
Keywords: Telepractice, speech therapy, technology, COVID-19, healthcare
[This article belongs to Research & Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions(rrjohp)]
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Research & Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions
| Volume | 14 |
| Issue | 01 |
| Received | March 20, 2024 |
| Accepted | March 26, 2024 |
| Published | April 23, 2024 |