[Communication as a right: Current state of augmentative communication in healthcare]

To assess the knowledge and use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) among pediatric healthcare professionals.

Cross-sectional descriptive observational study.

Primary care centers, tertiary hospitals, and regional hospitals in Catalonia.

A total of 338 professionals, including pediatricians, pediatric residents, nursing staff, and pediatric nursing residents.

An electronic questionnaire specifically designed for this study was administered. Its content was reviewed by experts, and a pilot test was conducted with 89 professionals to assess the clarity and relevance of the items.

Experience in caring for patients with complex communication needs, knowledge of AAC, experiences with AAC use, and prior training in this field.

Ninety percent of respondents regularly cared for children with communication barriers, including 94% who treated patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. However, only 22% were familiar with the concept of AAC, and less than 10% knew about ETRAN boards. Additionally, 89% of participants had not received training in AAC, although 99% considered such training necessary.

There is an urgent need to integrate AAC knowledge into both initial and ongoing healthcare training. The implementation of AAC systems not only facilitates communication but also fosters a more inclusive and safer environment for patients with complex communication needs.