Abstract
Introduction: The value of multidisciplinary practice in the provision of services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families has been well documented.[1] Collaborative practice is commonplace between allied health professions such as speech pathology (SP), occupational therapy, physiotherapy and social work. However, while SPs and Audiologists often work with the same clients they seldom work in partnership to achieve mutually agreed outcomes.
Practice change, population and timeline: To explore the potential of such a collaboration, a transdisciplinary paediatric Audiology and SP service was developed at an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled health service. The service implemented a family-centred model of care and was maintained over a period of 18 months.
Highlights and lessons learned: Evaluation showed that the service resulted in a high level of knowledge transfer between the professions; improved engagement with families, and a reduction in the number of appointments required. It also established synergistic links between audiological interventions designed to support hearing and SP interventions for communication development, and this was identified as a strength by families and clinicians.
Sustainability and transferability: The model of care was sustainable over time within the health service and would be transferable, particularly to community services that are delivered outside the traditional Audiology testing booths.
Conclusions: The results suggest that transdisciplinary model should be considered by Audiologists and SPs professionals working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families who have speech and hearing concerns.
Reference:
1- Gwynne, K, Lincoln, M. Developing the rural health workforce to improve Australian Aboriginal health outcomes: a systematic review. Australian Health Review. 2016. Advance online publication. doi: 10.1071/AH15241