Telehealth applications in speech-language pathology: a modified narrative review

We conducted a modified narrative review of the literature on telehealth applications used in speech-language pathology assessment and treatment. The following databases and information resources were used: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PSYCInfo, ERIC, Digital Dissertations, CSA Social Services Abstracts, CSA Sociological Abstracts, On-line ASHA publications and personal contacts. Sixty-two full-text documents were located. Twenty-eight provided sufficient detail to be reviewed using a checklist adapted from the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (SIGN) recommendations for level of evidence rankings and quality assessment ratings. Five of the 28 studies received a ranking indicating a high level of evidence (larger sample sizes, assessed outcomes with valid and reliable measures, performed statistical analysis of study results, measured reliability of study results, ensured internal and external validity, and ensured randomization of participants to groups). These five studies concluded that the service delivery results from telehealth were equivalent to traditional face-to-face results. However, telehealth was not a complete replacement for face-to-face service delivery and further research is required.