Bridging the Gap: Insights From Telepractice Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services in the Digital Age

Purpose: The United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication and the Patient-Provider Communication Network sought to quantify the impact of utilization of and access to telepractice for the provision of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services. The purpose of this article is to summarize findings from two surveys that explored the kinds of AAC services delivered remotely, barriers to AAC addressed through telepractice, and impact of the availability of remote AAC services on people with communication disabilities and their caregivers. Method: The study team developed two online surveys: (a) for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and (b) for individual AAC clients (or family members in the case of pediatric clients). Results: Survey responses were obtained from 66 SLPs and 90 AAC clients/family members. Access to telepractice allowed clients/family members to overcome both access and financial barriers. Respondents indicated that the availability of AAC telepractice services reduced transportation barriers, increased access to services by appropriately trained clinicians, and improved the outcomes for individuals needing AAC. Conclusions: Telepractice has made it possible for individuals with significant medical challenges, as well as those residing in areas lacking qualified providers, to receive services. Given that both clinicians and clients/families indicated that travel to receive services posed a significant barrier to access medically necessary treatment, the anticipated December 2024 end of Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services' authorization of reimbursement for telepractice services will be detrimental to many needing AAC services. Supplemental Material: https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27885447