Perceptions of health care workers prescribing augmentative and alternative communication devices to children

Access to assistive devices is critical for most children with disabilities to function in society. Despite this, there remain high levels of unmet needs and an underutilisation of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. Yet, relatively little is known about the challenges that clinicians encounter in prescribing AAC devices.

In-depth qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 speech language pathologists and occupational therapists who are current authorisers for AAC devices.

The findings suggest that there are several barriers (technical, social and political) influencing clinicians' decision to prescribe AAC devices. Technical challenges include the complexity of devices and viewing technology as a cure. Social barriers involve socio-demographic differences, readiness to use a device, social acceptance, attitudes, family's view of technology, and the priority of communication. Finally, several political barriers such as a shortage of speech pathologists, a complex prescription review process, inconsistent follow-up procedures, limitations of the consultative model, and gaps in funding and policy influenced clinicians' ability to prescribe AAC devices. Differences in philosophy of technology also influenced health providers' decision to prescribe AAC devices.

Service providers and policy makers should be cognizant of the contextual factors influencing health provider's decision to prescribe AAC devices.