Augmentative and Alternative Communication Service by Speech-Language Pathologists in Taiwan

Speech language pathologists (SLPs) play a leading role in overall augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) service delivery. Several changes (e.g., the provision of university AAC courses) related to AAC occurred in Taiwan in the past. However, little information of AAC services provided by SLPs in Taiwan is available. The purpose of the article is to review the evolution of AAC service delivery by SLPs in Taiwan. Findings from Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong served as a reference. A questionnaire was mailed to 302 participants registered with the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Taiwan (SLHA) as SLPs. A response rate is 33%. Most SLPs work in a department of rehabilitation in a hospital setting which is in northern Taiwan. Workshops held by the SLHA were the major resources for obtaining professional knowledge in AAC. Collaboration with an AAC team and training in the use of high-tech communication devices were the most desired forms of information and/or training. Implications are discussed.