Using experience-based codesign to coproduce aphasia rehabilitation services: study protocol

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Aphasia affects 30-40% of stroke survivors, leading to chronic language impairment.
• Current long-term aphasia management services are limited, with insufficient support available within 6-12 months post-stroke.
• This impacts individuals with aphasia and their families significantly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a protocol for developing coproduced aphasia service elements.
• To utilize experience-based codesign (EBCD) to collaboratively develop services and care pathways.
• To establish priorities and codesign new services based on the experiences of people with aphasia, their families, and clinicians.

Main Methods:

• The research involves people with aphasia, their families, and speech pathologists in Queensland, Australia, using EBCD.
• Phase 1 employs semistructured interviews and the nominal group technique to identify experiences and unmet needs.
• Thematic analysis and multistakeholder focus groups will be used to analyze and prioritize findings.

Main Results:

• Phase 1 data collection and analysis are underway to identify key themes in aphasia rehabilitation.
• Prioritization of themes will guide the codesign of new services in Phase 2.
• Financial costs and participant experiences with EBCD will be measured.

Conclusions:

• The EBCD approach facilitates the collaborative development of essential aphasia services.
• Integrating service users throughout the research ensures a focus on practical and effective knowledge translation.
• This protocol aims to improve long-term outcomes for individuals with aphasia and their families.