University of Maine, Speech Therapy Telepractice and Technology Program Manual

Judy Perkins Walker

Abstract/ Summary

Many children and adults with communication disorders, who live in Maine, do not receive speech therapy. Rural geography, a shortage of qualified speech-language pathologists, inadequate/costly transportation and inclement weather create significant challenges in reaching people in need of services. In response to this problem, an innovative graduate level telepractice training program in speech-language pathology has been developed at the University of Maine, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD). The training program has three learning components: (1) Intensive Training, (2) Clinical Practicum, (3) Discussion Groups. These complementary activities are guided by ASHA (2005; 2013) requirements of knowledge and skills of speech-language pathologists in providing speech therapy telepractice clinical services and FERPA (1974), HIPAA (1996) and HITECH (1996) regulations.

The University of Maine, Speech Therapy Telepractice and Technology Program manual provides the specific procedures used for training speech therapy telepractice to graduate students in Communication Sciences and Disorders. The manual contains a detailed outline and description of the program design, operational procedures, technology, equipment and forms used for training clinical competencies in speech therapy telepractice. Additionally, procedures and accompanying forms have been developed for outcomes measures including: Telepractice Practicum Evaluation form, eHelper Competencies, Supervisor Evaluation and Consumer Satisfaction.