Addressing Competence and Educational Gaps Among Speech and Language Pathologists in Cleft Palate Care: A...

Area of Science:

• Speech and Language Pathology
• Pediatric Care
• Cleft Lip and Palate

Background:

• Global trend of reduced dedicated cleft palate (CP±L) coursework in speech-language pathology (SLP) programs.
• Resulting shortage of well-trained SLPs specializing in CP±L care.
• Necessity for alternative training formats to address this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess training needs of Flemish SLPs working with children with CP±L.
• Examine current competence, experience, and employment situations.
• Identify preferences for continuing education content, sources, organization, and barriers.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive, quantitative online survey using Qualtrics®XM.
• Survey based on existing literature with supplementary open-ended questions.
• 158 respondents analyzed for experience, competence, and training needs.

Main Results:

• Majority of SLPs (60%) would refer complex CP±L cases due to perceived lack of competence, especially in feeding or severe speech issues.
• While 58.8% felt competent in speech/language issues, only 9.4% felt highly competent in feeding problems.
• Two-thirds (63.6%) expressed a strong desire for continuing education in CP±L assessment and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Flemish SLPs report a need for specialized, practical continuing education in CP±L, particularly for complex cases.
• Demand exists for training delivered by experts, featuring practical guidance and resources like video footage and expert observation.
• A tailored continuing education program was developed to meet identified community SLP needs for improved CP±L care.