Factors impacting paediatric VFSS service sustainability and training, an Australian perspective

The videofluoroscopic swallow study is a specialised procedure, for which speech-language pathologists require additional post-graduate training. To date, little is known about factors impacting paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study service sustainability. Based on available literature, it is anticipated that staff training is one impacting factor. The primary aim of this study was to explore service manager and speech-language pathologist perspectives on factor/s impacting paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study service sustainability. Secondary aims were to investigate current training practices.

Directors/service managers and lead paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study speech-language pathologists from paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study sites across Queensland (Australia) were prospectively recruited to complete a 13-item questionnaire and optional semi-structured focus group. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis.

Six facilities were represented, with 11 questionnaire responses and eight participants across two focus groups. Two main themes were identified to be impacting paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study service sustainability: a) Training & competency and b) service and infrastructure. Participants identified eight recommendations to improve training and subsequent staffing sustainability.

A variety of factors were reported to impact paediatric videofluroscopic swallow study service sustainability, with difficulties with staffing and training reported to underpin many of these issues. Findings highlight the need for structured, flexible, and responsive training opportunities.