Satisfaction and Competence With Telepractice Services in Pakistan Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: The Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perspective

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to explore satisfaction and competency with telepractice services among Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in Pakistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study with a sample of 204 SLPs was conducted at Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan, from August 2020 to December 2020. Our study recruited qualified SLPs of both genders, aged between 25 and 60 years, using a convenience sampling technique. Non-practicing SLPs and those holding administrative posts were excluded from this study. The “Service Provider Questionnaire for Telepractice” was used for data collection. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS v. 22. The Chi-square and Pearson r correlation were used to detect any relationships between study variables, and P<0.05 was significant. Results: The results showed that SLPs are pretty satisfied with using telepractice and building relationships with child/family, compared to face-to-face practice, and did not reveal significant differences (P=0.146 and P=0.882, respectively). Also, the competence of SLPs was good with telepractice; however, higher competence was noted with face-to-face practice, and the difference was statistically significant (r=0.165, P=0.018). Discussion: Regarding satisfaction with the use of telepractice and relationship building with child/family, SLPs are pretty satisfied, though results did not differ significantly from face-to-face practice. However, for competence in providing services, the SLPs felt more competent with face-to-face practice than telepractice. Satisfaction using telepractice has an association with patient’s age and SLP’s experience and age, while satisfaction with relationships using telepractice is associated with SLP’s qualification and experience. Competence in providing telepractice is associated with patient’s age and SLP’S qualification, experience, and age.

Status of Teletherapy in Post COVID-19 Era

“…isolation, uncertainty about the pandemic catastrophe and the ensuing economic collapse may have a negative impact on mental health, especially in people who already have mental health problems. Teletherapy is best option in past, present and future to treat mental health issues, due to the worries and concerns around contracting the infectious or viral disease like COVID-19 (Akram et al, 2021). Teletherapy is a practical and efficient treatment approach that does not obstruct the therapeutic alliance and appears to be broadly embraced by patients and Health Care Professionals (HCPs).…”