An Introduction to Speech Privacy for Early Career Clinicians: General Considerations and the Specific Example of Electrolarynx Users

Abstract

Purpose: This article introduces early career clinicians to speech privacy (SP): its definition, a brief history in the context of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, and applications in health care settings. General considerations for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are outlined, along with basic principles for considering what might threaten SP. The example of speakers who use an electrolarynx (EL) is used to call attention to some specific issues that clinicians may encounter in trying to maintain SP. Conclusions: This article provided an overview of SP considerations for early career clinicians. In the case of EL users, these include the unique quality of EL speech and the settings in which SLPs may work with these patients. More research is needed to investigate SP concerns for specific clinical populations that seek SLP services and the physical conditions in which clinician–client discussions occur. Recommendations for clinical practice are provided.