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ERIC Number: EJ1458724
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Jan
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1368-2822
EISSN: EISSN-1460-6984
Speech and Language Therapist-Led Clinics for Low-Risk Suspected Head and Neck Cancer Referrals: A Qualitative Study of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons' Views
Louise C. Occomore-Kent; John C. Hardman; Justin W. G. Roe; Paula Bradley; Paul N. Carding; Joanne M. Patterson
International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, v60 n1 e13137 2025
Background: Over 200,000 patients are referred onto the suspected head and neck cancer (HNC) pathway annually in the UK, with around 3% receiving a cancer diagnosis. With new HNC advancements in identifying patients at low risk of a cancer diagnosis, one proposal is a speech and language therapy (SLT)-led first point of contact clinic for low-risk patients presenting with voice or swallowing symptoms. Aims: To explore ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons' views regarding this model. Materials & Methods: The study used a qualitative study design using semi-structured interviews. Transcribed responses were analysed using thematic analysis. Outcomes & Results: A total of 11 UK ENT surgeons participated. Themes included the positives and challenges of the proposed model; existing facilitators that increase the likelihood of success; and the requirements for successful implementation. Service variation impacted level of interest. Waiting times were problematic at some sites more than others; SLT workforce issues were of differing prevalence; SLT competence and interest differed; and support from organizational leaders varied. Participants' personal views also varied, for example, acceptability of the model to patients, or what governance structure is required. There was no single SLT-led clinic model suitable for all centres; however, some general principles were identified to inform further evaluation and implementation of this model. Conclusions & Implications: Principles included the deployment of SLTs experienced in laryngeal examination and flexible nasendoscopy; dedicated job plans and workforce; professional and regulatory body recognition and support; and clear training, supervision structure and job description for the role. Service outcomes, training protocol and competencies require robust evaluation.
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A