Evaluation of Pediatricians' Referral Processes for Children Who Stutter: Descriptive Cross-Sectional Research

Objective: The collaboration between speech and language therapists (SLT) and pediatricians is highly important. Because pediatricians' knowledge on the subject will ensure that children are referred SLTs for further evaluation without delay and for early intervention when necessary. In this regard, the aim of this study has been determined as evaluating the referral processes of pediatricians for children who stutter. Material and Methods: A total of 61 pediatricians participated in this study (38.08±9.59). The Turkish-adapted version of a questionnaire found in the literature was used as a data collection tool. The statistical analysis of the data was conducted using the SPSS 25 software package. Results: Among the different specialties to which pediatricians make referrals for stuttering evaluation, SLTs had the highest referral rate, with an average score 6.49 (SD=0.94). In terms of referral criteria, the highest average score was calculated for the criterion of sound and syllable repetition 6.74 (SD=0.54). Regarding the referral of children exhibiting general stuttering characteristics to the relevant specialists (the healthcare professional each pediatrician considered appropriate for the case), the fictional case vignettes with the highest overall referral rates were example case 3 [6.84 (SD=0.49)] and example case 2 [6.67 (SD=0.72)] while the lowest rates were observed for the fictional case vignettes of example case 1 [5.13 (SD=1.79)] and example case 4 [4.97 (SD=1.89)]. Conclusion: It is considered that pediatricians need training and informational programs aimed at their professional development in order to develop a comprehensive perspective on stuttering.