Cochrane, Frances, Appleby, Morgan, Siyambalapitiya, Samantha, and Cornwell, Petrea (2024) Speech-language pathology services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples post stroke or TBI: A qualitative case exploration. In: [Presented at the International Aphasia Rehabilitation Conference]. From: IARC 2024: International Aphasia Rehabilitation Conference, 1-3 July 2024, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.

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Abstract

Background: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience negative impacts to their wellbeing and reduced health service access and engagement due to acquired communication disorders (ACD), unsafe hospital experiences, and dislocation from home and family (Armstrong et al., 2023; Fitts et al., 2019). Communication and cultural difference between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous speech pathologists (SP); along with SPs’ lack of cultural responsiveness, may contribute to communication breakdown, and culturally inappropriate ACD assessment and intervention approaches (Cochrane et al., 2023; Fitts et al., 2019).

Aim/s: This study aimed to explore “how” and “why” SP services are delivered for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults with ACDs in hospital, and the experiences of those involved in the delivery and receipt of these services. Method: The study employed an instrumental case study design, informed by culturally responsive principles (Stake, 2006). Data were collected from two Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, and four SPs, including an Aboriginal SP. Multiple data collection methods were used including medical record review, participant observation, interviews, focus group, and reflective diaries; and were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results: Preliminary data analysis revealed seven categories. The categories related to: 1) Finding out about patients’ culture; 2) Collaboration with IHLOs; 3) Aboriginal SP helps patients and non-Indigenous SPs; 4) Building rapport; 5) Indigenous patients’ hospital experiences; 6) Assessment experiences and approaches; and 7) Rehab experiences and approaches.

Discussion and conclusions: SPs attempt to use informal and rapport building approaches to facilitate culturally responsive practice. SPs find it challenging to build rapport with patients, or adapt assessment and therapy approaches, especially when trying to balance patient and workplace needs. The invaluable connections and shared experiences Aboriginal SPs have with patients was highlighted. To facilitate a safe and culturally supportive environment, SPs must develop rapport and connections with patients, collaborate with IHLOs early in the patients’ hospital journey, and ensure ACD assessment and rehabilitation approaches are personally relevant and culturally appropriate for patients.

Item ID:	83249
Item Type:	Conference Item (Presentation)
Related URLs:	https://shrs.uq.edu.au/files/20381/IARC%...
Date Deposited:	30 Jul 2024 22:12
FoR Codes:	42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science > 420110 Speech pathology @ 100%
SEO Codes:	21 INDIGENOUS > 2103 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health > 210399 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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