“It is about more than just equipment”: service providers’ vision for AAC services in Ontario, Canada

Without appropriate support, communication disabilities can limit social participation in education, employment, and community engagement. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services can help to mitigate barriers to participation. Research on AAC services is growing internationally, however, remains limited in Canada. The purpose of this study was to explore the perspective of service providers on AAC services in Ontario. A total of 21 participants, comprised of speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, and a communicative disorders assistant participated in focus groups. Authors used Appreciative Inquiry, a strengths-based approach to organizational change, guided by four phases: Discovery, Dream, Design, and Destiny. Using reflexive thematic analysis, the authors generated four themes that reflected areas of change in AAC services: expanding the reach of AAC services; aligning service delivery with client needs; leveraging the strengths of service providers; and focusing on the lived experience. Findings highlight key areas for improvement including enhancing professional autonomy, increasing service availability, and providing interventions in natural environments. Participants envisioned service delivery grounded in client-centeredness, efficiency, equity, accessibility, and support for service providers. This study provides a critical evidence base to guide future research and drive informed recommendations for transforming AAC service practices and policies across Ontario.