Factors influencing person-centred care: Speech-language pathologists and audiologists perspective

Person-centred care (PCC) is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, and its implementation is primarily based on clinicians' initiation and sustained efforts and the availability of resources. Recent PCC literature has primarily focused on high-income settings, raising concerns about the feasibility of PCC implementation in low- and middle-income countries.

This study examined speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) and audiologists' (AUDs) perceptions of barriers and facilitators towards implementing PCC in the diverse South African context, particularly how their demographic factors influence these perceptions.

A national cross-sectional e-survey pooled 103 clinicians who were providing speech-language pathology and audiological services in South Africa. The e-survey included questions on participants' demographics, working environment and a seven-point Likert scale rating 10 components that influence PCC.

Clinicians scored personal factors (64.7%), followed by their relationships with different professionals (54.9%) as the most facilitating factors for achieving PCC. The most significant perceived barrier was resources, including time and finances (59.8%), followed by the client perspectives (53.9%). Significant associations were found between the components influencing PCC and clinicians' qualifications, work sectors and populations served.

The collective findings of this study highlighted the multifaceted nature of PCC implementation within a diverse healthcare context. Client perspectives need to be considered while leveraging clinician attributes and fostering supportive workplace environments for the successful adoption of PCC.

This study contributes to literature of PCC implementation and has captured how the perceptions of speech-language therapists (SLPs) and AUDs call for tailored approaches in diverse healthcare contexts.