The Implementation of Telepractice by Malaysian Speech-Language Pathologists During the COVID-19 Pandemic

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) led speech-language pathologists (SLPs) around the world to shift their service delivery methods from face-to-face service to telepractice.This study explored the implementation of telepractice by Malaysian SLPs and determined whether there was an association between the SLPs' perceptions of the effectiveness of telepractice and the frequency of the telepractice services provided, as well as between the use of telepractice and prior training received. Methods: Eighty-nine SLPs responded to an 18-question online survey that inquired about demographics, telepractice during the pandemic, perceptions of telepractice and prior training received. Results: Seventy-five percent of SLPs reported providing services via telepractice during the pandemic compared to 19% before the pandemic. Most SLPs who used telepractice stated that services delivered via telepractice were comparable with face-to-face services;no association was found between the frequency of providing services via telepractice and the SLPs' perceptions of its effectiveness.They had also received some training in telepractice, although no association was found between the type of training received and the provision of telepractice services. SLPs who did not provide services via telepractice reported awareness of telepractice but described a lack of knowledge, support, and training. All SLPs expressed interest to receive more training in telepractice to enable them to provide better services. Conclusion: Malaysian SLPs demonstrated great commitment towards service provision during the pandemic, similar to SLPs in other nations. It is hoped that Malaysian SLPs continue to have positive attitudes toward telepractice with increased familiarity, use, and training. Telepractice services, undoubtedly, are here to stay.