Telepractice/telehealth and speech pathology
The use of Telepractice (Telehealth) has increased since the outbreak of COVID-19.
The following FAQs are intended to provide guidance and resources to members of the general public for understanding and successfully participating in Telepractice services for speech pathology.
If you have further questions in relation to this document, please contact Speech Pathology Australia on 03 9642 4899 or 1300 368 835 or [email protected].
What is telehealth? Is it different than telepractice?
Telehealth means that a health service is provided using telecommunication technology. Telehealth allows you and a speech pathologist to be in two different locations.
Speech pathologists often use the term “telepractice” to describe the telehealth services they provide. “Telepractice” includes the different settings where speech pathologists work. This could be in a hospital, private practice, school, community health, etc.
Speech pathologists must provide the same quality of telepractice services that you would receive in person. When a speech pathologist offers telepractice services, they must follow the same Code of Ethics and Professional Standards as when they offer onsite services.
How does telepractice work?
Most telepractice services happen through a live, videoconference meeting with your speech pathologist.
Your speech pathologist may use different tools to make the service look and feel as close to an onsite service as possible. A few things you may experience are:
- Video and audio that lets the therapist model and observe communication.
- Screen share that lets the speech pathologist share items from their computer with you.
- Drawing and typing functions that let you interact with screenshared items.
- Webcams that let you and the speech pathologist observe each other and activities.
Sometimes you and the speech pathologist might share recordings or activities that happen outside of sessions. This may help speech pathologists observe and analyse information, or could help you practise communication and eating/swallowing skills.
What do I need to do to make Telepractice successful?
This will depend on your individual circumstances. You should speak with your speech pathologist to determine what you will need. Below are some common resources that could help make telepractice successful:
A device: This is what you use to communicate with the speech pathologist. Many people use desktop computers, laptops, and even tablets. You might communicate using a video conference app on a mobile device or speak over the phone. For many speech pathology services, a phone may not offer the audio or video quality that is needed. Speak with your speech pathologist about the devices that you have and which could work for your circumstances.
An internet connection: You should have access to a reliable internet connection. Your internet speed should allow a clear audio and video signal. Your network should be secure and private. Do not participate in telepractice using public or unsecured networks.
A secure location: You should be in a location that is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Only permit people in the location who would typically be part of your speech pathology session. Do not participate in telepractice where unknown people could mistakenly observe the session.
A support person: Many times it helps to have someone with you for support during sessions. The support person can work with the speech pathologist to:
- Resolve technical issues.
- Manage materials.
- Position and adjust equipment.
- Help use your device.
- Manage the environment.
- Support the speech pathologist’s observations.
Speak with your speech pathologist about who can be an appropriate support person.
Is telepractice secure?
When you and the speech pathologists take appropriate actions, telepractice can be a secure way to receive services. There are risks to privacy and security that you and your speech pathologist should be aware of. Here are a few areas to discuss with your speech pathologist:
Videoconference platforms: There are a range of videoconference platforms a speech pathologist might use. Each has unique security features. Many people use free or low-cost videoconference platforms to communicate with friends and family. These might not have the features needed to keep your session private. If a platform is not secure others may be able to access your information or put malware onto your computer. Talk with your speech pathologist about the platform you will use. Discuss its safety features and how to use them. Ask about how data is secured when it is transmitted between your device and the speech pathologist’s. You can often find information about a platform’s security on their website.
Communication: Discuss how you and your speech pathologist will communicate and schedule meetings. Make sure you share information in a secure way, like a phone number or email that only you have access to.
Internet connection: Use a private, secured network. Do not use public or unknown networks for telepractice sessions, to schedule meetings, or to share private information.
Recordings: You and your speech pathologist should only record meetings when you have both agreed:
- That there is a good reason to do so
-
That you consent to the recording
- Who will record the meeting
- What the recording will be used for
- How the recording will be stored
- Who may have access to the recording.
Session recordings generally form part of a client’s record. It can be a serious breach of privacy regulations for recordings to be shared with others.
Environment: Only permit people in the location who would typically be part of your speech pathology session. Do not participate in telepractice where unknown people could mistakenly observe the session.
Is telepractice effective?
There is growing evidence that, when evidence-based and ethical practices are used, many telepractice services can be as effective as in-person services.
Depending on your individual circumstances, telepractice might not be the best fit for you. This happens with other types of services – not just telepractice. Discuss your situation with your speech pathologist to determine if telepractice is right for you. You might talk about:
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Sensory characteristics: How do you hear and see? Do glasses, hearing aids, or other supports help you?
- Physical characteristics: Do you need support to use a computer or device? Do you access your computer or device while sitting at a table or somewhere else? Do you need to change positions or have physical supports during a session?
- Cognitive and attention characteristics: How does it feel to sit in front of a computer throughout a session? Are some instructions or ways of communicating sometimes confusing?
- Communication characteristics: Do you use sign language or a device to communicate? Do you speak a language other than English? Do others have difficulty understanding your speech?
If you have difficulty with some of these characteristics, there might be ways a speech pathologist can support you to have a successful telepractice service. Speak with your speech pathologist about what you might need.
What if I’m not comfortable being seen by telepractice?
Discuss any concerns that you have with your speech pathologist. They may be able to share information or change what they do to address your concerns.
If you still do not feel comfortable, you can decide not to participate in a session. You can also decide not to participate in specific activities that happen during the session. You can change your mind, even in the middle of a session. You can use speech, sign, or writing to let your speech pathologist know that you no longer wish to participate.
You can request to receive services in-person. If your current speech pathologist is not able to offer in-person services, discuss other options with them. They may refer you to another speech pathologist who can provide those services.
Can NDIS funds be used for telepractice services for speech pathology?
Yes. Speak with your speech pathologist or support coordinator for more information.
Do Medicare rebates apply to telepractice services for speech pathology?
Yes. Medicare has made rebates for speech pathology and other allied health permanent. Speak with your speech pathologist for more information.
Will my private health fund cover telepractice services for speech pathology?
Many private insurers do permit customers who have the appropriate extras cover to claim for speech pathology services delivered through telepractice. Check with your provider to ask about coverage.
Can I use telepractice to work with a speech pathologist in another country?
Under certain conditions, you might be able to work with speech pathologists in another country through telepractice. The speech pathologist and the service must meet Australian standards. There are a range of important considerations and arrangements you and the speech pathologist should make. Learn more about these in the FAQ - International telepractice from other countries to Australia.