Understanding the Effect of Problems and Consequences Caused by the COVID-19 Outbreak on the Clinical Activities of Speech-language Pathologists

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic, as a new phenomenon, caused many problems for speech-language pathologists and faced them with various crises. The aim of this study was to review the experiences of speech-language pathologists with the problems and consequences of the pandemic and their effects on their clinical activities. Methods: A qualitative study of interpretive phenomenological analysis was conducted and 21 participants were selected non-randomly using maximum variation technique. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. After collecting the data, coding was started using MAXQDA software. Then, the data were analyzed by thematic analysis method and main themes emerged. Finally, the scientific accuracy of the data was measured by the method of Lincoln and Guba. Results: Ten main themes, including infection, financial consequences, negative consequences of following health protocols, psychological consequences, consequences for clients, problems created in the workplace, problems created by clients, educational problems, lack of facilities, and opportunity creation were extracted, which represented therapists’ experiences with clinical work during the pandemic. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic created many negative and sometimes positive consequences for speech-language pathologists as well as many other professions, which led to changes and new experiences in the former routine of these therapists.