An Overview of Speech Therapy and Audiology Services in the Kingdom of Bahrain
Abstract
The study’s first objective is to present an overview of the demographic information of speech therapists and the current service delivery process provided by government entities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The second objective is to analyze the caseload and workload of the Speech Unit clinics at Salmaniya Medical Complex. The study takes a descriptive, analytical approach to analyze data collected via a web-based online survey (17 questions) to determine demographic information about speech therapists in the Kingdom of Bahrain. A survey was completed by 59 participants: 45 Bahraini therapists and 45 female therapists. The significant findings show that only 24 therapists were based in medical settings, while the rest were school-based. Most speech therapists have bachelor’s degrees, while there are currently seven master's degree holders. Most therapists have less than ten years of experience. Despite the Ministry of Health and the NHRA's support for allied professions, there is a severe shortage of speech therapists in all healthcare facilities and other ministries that offer rehabilitation programs to those with disabilities or in need of services. A cross-national study involving all professionals in the public and private sectors is now required to promote a broader perspective and comprehensive analysis, particularly as the Bahrain health system transitions toward autonomy and health insurance.
Additional Files
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
By submitting to AJAL, authors agree to the following terms:
- Authors grant the journal right of first publication, with the work for an indefinite period of time after publication.
- Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal.
- Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work.