Evaluating Efficacy, Global Impact, & Trainee Perception of International Speech Therapy Trainings

ABSTRACT

Background/Purpose: This presentation highlights the benefits and challenges of implementing speech therapy trainings utilizing a train-the-trainer model. Children born with CL+/-P need comprehensive care from a cleft team to ensure that they can meet their highest potential and engage in all aspects of life in their communities. However, in these areas it can be difficult to locate health professionals with the capacity to address cleft palate speech characteristics. As a result, many children speak with these characteristic speech patterns post-palate repair. Research has shown that in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) a partner hospital model improves the quantity and quality of cleft care services (Purnell, McGrath, & Gosain, 2015). However, there are varying models as to how to structure and build these programs once a partner hospital is established. Limited research has been conducted focusing on the efficacy of speech therapy trainings intended to provide a sustainable impact on these communities. Methods/Description This poster shares comprehensive data from a survey distributed to training attendees from the past 5 years. Trainings were organized by Smile Train and facilitated by local health professionals who went on to become future trainers. The survey was distributed in August 2020 and consisted of three sections Personal & Demographic information, Global Impact & Outreach, and Speech Training Feedback. The survey elicited a group of respondents (n=55) who each attended one or more of 14 trainings over a five year span (2015-2020). Authors collected demographic data of respondents, measured respondents' self perception of competency in this area before and after speech therapy trainings, and gathered trainee feedback for future trainings. Results: Surveys were analyzed via SurveyMonkey platform. Researchers analyzed trainee's multiple choice selections, scaled scores, and open-ended responses. Results indicated that trainee confidence in treating those with speech conditions resulting from a CL +/-P significantly increased after the training (on average, trainee confidence was scored a 4/10 before training and improved to 9/10 after training). Further, 56% of trainees have now begun to train other health professionals in their communities. Constructive feedback included the need for continuing education after trainings concluded and the need to address the lack of resources/funding in home countries. Finally, trainees report difficulties in implementing tools acquired from the trainings as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Utilization of a train-the-trainer model for speech trainings can provide a lasting, sustainable impact for LIMCs based on respondent feedback. Continued survey distribution is imperative to continuously evaluate the efficacy of these trainings. Further discussion is also needed to determine how trainings can effectively provide tools and education within the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic.