Doctor’s perception on the role of speech and language therapy in palliative care

Abstract

Palliative care increasingly recognizes speech and language therapy (SLT) as a vital component of holistic, patient-centered care. SLTs help people with speech and swallowing problems that have a big effect on their quality of life and are related to illnesses that are ending their lives. The study aims to know about the doctor‟s perception on the role of speech and language therapy in palliative care patients. 9 samples have been taken purposively from the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH) and Hospice Bangladesh for a phenomenological study where there is Doctors‟ a self- made semi-structured questionnaire is invented, and content analysis is done so that perception of doctor‟s about the role of SLT can be analyzed. Researchers found many perceptions, and most professionals commented positively about SLT in the interview. They said that the role of SLT is significant. Besides, other professionals suggested that Speech & Language therapists (SLT) should play a major and crucial role in the palliative care unit for minimizing speech, swallowing, and voice difficulties. This study finding will help to view the needs and status of SLTs to ensure comprehensive management of palliative care patients and develop a standard multidisciplinary approach. Keywords: Speech and Language Therapy, Doctor’s Perception, Palliative Care Unit