The impact of COVID-19 on speech–language and hearing professions in low- and middle-income countries: Challenges and opportunities explored

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Abstract

Background

Since the advent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the speech–language and hearing (SLH) professions globally have been confronted with novel and unexpected challenges.

Objective

The aim of this article was to explore the impact of COVID-19 on SLH professions in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) as presented in the Special Issue of the South African Journal of Communication Disorders in the year 2022.

Method

Divergent from the standard editorial writing style, this editorial adopted a research approach where a qualitative, descriptive scoping review design was conducted to meet the objectives of the study. Three specific objectives were targeted: (1) exploring the challenges to SLH research, teaching and practice; (2) establishing evidence-based solutions available for these challenges that can be used to improve the professions’ response in the post-pandemic era; and (3) determining the areas that require further investigation, alternative solutions and innovation for improved readiness for future pandemics. A total of 21 manuscripts were reviewed that covered three predetermined themes – research, teaching and practice – that were constructed through a deductive approach as part of the call for papers for the special issue. These manuscripts were from academics, researchers and clinicians from various institutions in LMICs. The review is presented using thematic analysis.

Results

The review raised important challenges, presented under various subthemes, to the three key themes. These challenges reflect on the impact of COVID-19 on the SLH professions in terms of research, teaching, service provision and ethical challenges, as well as its impact on speech language, hearing, swallowing and balance functions. The review also advanced solutions and future directions during and beyond COVID-19.

Conclusion

These findings raise global implications for research, teaching and practice that are not only relevant to the SLH professions.

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Most cited references 51

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Writing narrative literature reviews for peer-reviewed journals: secrets of the trade.

Bart N Green, Claire D. Johnson, Alan Adams (2006)

To describe and discuss the process used to write a narrative review of the literature for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Publication of narrative overviews of the literature should be standardized to increase their objectivity. In the past decade numerous changes in research methodology pertaining to reviews of the literature have occurred. These changes necessitate authors of review articles to be familiar with current standards in the publication process. Narrative overview of the literature synthesizing the findings of literature retrieved from searches of computerized databases, hand searches, and authoritative texts. An overview of the use of three types of reviews of the literature is presented. Step by step instructions for how to conduct and write a narrative overview utilizing a 'best-evidence synthesis' approach are discussed, starting with appropriate preparatory work and ending with how to create proper illustrations. Several resources for creating reviews of the literature are presented and a narrative overview critical appraisal worksheet is included. A bibliography of other useful reading is presented in an appendix. Narrative overviews can be a valuable contribution to the literature if prepared properly. New and experienced authors wishing to write a narrative overview should find this article useful in constructing such a paper and carrying out the research process. It is hoped that this article will stimulate scholarly dialog amongst colleagues about this research design and other complex literature review methods.

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The efficacy of social distance and ventilation effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 transmission

Chanjuan Sun, Zhiqiang Zhai (2020)

Highlights • Social distancing index Pd was developed on basis of exhaled droplet distribution and transmission. • The perfect-mixing-based Wells-Riley model was modified by introducing the social distancing index Pd and ventilation effectiveness Ez . • The safe social distance is recommended as 1.6–3.0 m considering aerosol transmission of exhaled large droplets from talking. • The modified model used one actual pandemic case to calibrate the infectious dose and verified by a number of other existing cases. • Projections using the validated model illustrated the efficacy of social distancing and influence factors on required ventilation rate.