Speech Therapy Clinic Workflow at One of the Government Hospitals in Saudi Arabia: Process Analysis and Recommendations

Abstract

Background: Speech therapy, one of the rehabilitation specialties, is expected to be in severe shortage-as aging, population growth, and medical advances that prolong life have increased the need for rehabilitation services. However, the integration of telehealth technologies into the provision of health services in general and speech therapy services, in particular, offers effective solutions to this challenge. Objectives: To analyze the current workflow in the speech therapy clinic at one of the specialist hospitals in Saudi Arabia and figure out the alternative solutions to maximize the treatment benefits. Methodology: Data collection was done for one month using qualitative methods, including process observation and informal conversations with three speech pathologists who work in the clinic. Result: The speech therapy provided services according to the general practice guidelines; however, these services can be improved by implementing a new therapy approach. Conclusion: Although there are many barriers to the use of telehealth in speech pathology, many of its benefits in clinical practice were identified. These benefits can be used to catalyze the expansion of the role of telehealth role speech therapy.