Common practice in assessing and treating paediatric voice problems : a survey of speech therapists in Hong Kong

Abstract

The study investigated common practice of Hong Kong speech and language pathologists (SLPs) in assessing and treating paediatric voice problems and their perception on management of paediatric vocal health. An anonymous online survey was developed and all qualified practicing SLPs in Hong Kong were invited to complete the survey. Sixty-four completed surveys were returned. Results showed that SLPs generally were under confident in managing paediatric voice problems. Most SLPs reported performing non-instrumental assessments all of the time. They indicated difficulty obtaining referral from Ear, Nose and Throat specialists (ENTs), lack of training and access to equipment as the major barriers in performing instrumental assessments. As for treatment, indirect and direct voice therapy were the most frequently adopted approaches. SLPs reported using a diversity of voice therapy techniques and the most used therapy techniques were vocal hygiene and resonant voice therapy. Additionally, SLPs commented limited clinical time and parents’ and children’s lack of awareness of voice problems as major reasons for lower priority of voice assessment and treatment. Further research on ways to remove obstacles in management of paediatric voice problems, continuing professional education and general public education are needed to enhance clinical care to children with voice problems.