Technology in Speech Pathology

Along with the sudden need for telehealth technology during Covid, using platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, new ways for technology to be used in practice are being created every day!

Here are some exciting ways technology is being developed for Speech Pathology practice.

1)        Use of AR and VR technology

VR and AR technology is being developed to help make speech pathology sessions engaging, allowing clients to practice language skills in a simulated environment and making therapy interactive. It is also being developed into wearable AVR devices by a company called Vuzix, allowing clinicians to create a recording of speech samples, creating real time language translation for linguistically diverse clients and having relevant literature available at the clinician’s fingertips to refer to during sessions.

2)        AI technology

The use of AI in Speech Pathology is quite broad. Clinicians can use tools such as Heidi Health to take real time clinical notes, allowing more face-to-face time with clients. This is as well as AI software being used to analyse advanced conditions that may have been missed through VFSS (Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies) which allows speech pathologists to see the swallowing process in real time with the help of X-ray.

3)        Advancing Research    

Through the use of specialised computer software and AI technology, Speech Pathologists are able to review all of the available research and evidence for effective and safe treatments in record time! This allows evidence to guide practice more thoroughly than before.

The use of technology gives us an insight into how to make practice more efficient for clients and clinicians. Issues around consent, privacy and safety of data all need to be considered thoroughly before using any new clinical tool. Although technology can help considerably with practice, it will never truly replace the human element of compassion and care which are so crucial in speech pathology.

Remember to be kind and share joy!

-Alyssa (Speech Pathology Student/Allied Health Assistant)