Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologists’ Use of Mobile Health Technology: Qualitative Questionnaire Study

Abstract

BackgroundWhile technology use in pediatric therapies is increasing, there is so far no research available focusing on how pediatric speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United States use technology.ObjectiveThis paper sought to determine if, and to what extent, pediatric SLPs are using mobile apps, to determine what purpose they are using them for, and to identify gaps in available technology to provide guidance for future technological development.MethodsPediatric SLPs completed an online survey containing five sections: demographics, overall use, use in assessment, use in intervention, barriers, and future directions.ResultsMobile app use by 485 pediatric SLPs in the clinical setting was analyzed. Most (364/438; 83.1%) pediatric SLPs reported using technology ≤50% of the time in their clinical work, with no differences evident by age group (<35 years and ≥35 years; P=.97). Pediatric SLPs are currently using apps for intervention (399/1105; 36.1%), clinical information (241/1105; 21.8%), parent education (151/1105; 13.7%), assessment (132/1105; 12%), client education (108/1105; 9.8%), and other uses (55/1105; 5.0%). Cost (46/135; 34.1%) and lack of an evidence base (36/135; 26.7%) were the most frequently reported barriers. Most SLPs (268/380; 70.7%) desired more technology use, with no difference evident by age group (P=.81).ConclusionsA majority of pediatric SLPs are using mobile apps less than 50% of the time in a pediatric setting and they use them more during intervention compared to assessment. While pediatric SLPs are hesitant to add to their client’s screen time, they would like more apps to be developed that are supported by research and are less expensive. Implications for future research and app development are also discussed.

The willingness and attitudes of speech-language pathologists towards the use of mobile health technology: a survey study

“…These tools have been used to diagnose speech-language disorders, as an auxiliary tool in the treatment process, and to send educational messages to the families of these patients [10][11][12]. Also, in a study that investigated the applications of mHealth technology to pediatric speech and language therapy, it was concluded that pediatric speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are using this technology for intervention (36.1%), clinical information (21.8%), parent education (13.7%), assessment (12%), client education (9.8%), and other uses (5.0%) [13]. Acceptance of this technology by SLPs can be constructive in the broad application of this technology in diagnosing and treating patients with speech and language disorders.…”

“They Can't Believe They're a Tiger”: Insights from pediatric speech‐language pathologist mobile app users and app designers

“…SLPs use specific app selection criteria such as educational relevance, cost, usability, aesthetics, accessibility and functionality to consider when designing and developing applications to reach appropriate goals for their clients (Lidwell et al., 2010; Olszewski et al., 2022; Thompson & Zimmerman, 2019). Though SLPs may have certain criteria when selecting mobile applications for therapy, these criteria can be especially challenging for families seeking additional assistance via apps.…”

Digital Health and Learning in Speech-Language Pathology, Phoniatrics, and Otolaryngology: Survey Study for Designing a Digital Learning Toolbox App

“…In the field of communication sciences and disorders (CSD), investigation into digital solutions such as mobile health and mobile learning apps is also becoming popular, although at a slower pace than in other medical fields [ 15 , 16 ]. As an interdisciplinary field concerned with treating the estimated 1 billion people worldwide living with a disability often affecting their speech, language, hearing, voice, or ability to functionally communicate, the field strongly relies on the effective, coordinated efforts of speech-language pathologists (SLPs), phoniatricians, and otolaryngologists among others [ 17 ].…”