Experience and Barriers in Pediatric Dysphagia Rehabilitation: A Quantitative Survey Study

Authors

• François-Xavier Brajot, Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, TaiwanFollow
• Ai-Ju Wu, Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
• Pao-Chuan Torng, Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan

Abstract

Purpose: Despite an important need for health care services targeting pediatric dysphagia, there exist a number of barriers to doing so, including workforce competence. The current study surveyed practicing Speech-Language Pathologists to determine (1) the importance of pediatric dysphagia in their caseload, (2) the adequacy of existing educational resources, and (3) perceived barriers to providing quality care in Taiwan.

Methods: An anonymous survey was completed by Speech-Language Pathologists working in Taiwan. Responses were analyzed with respect to current work setting, experience, preparation, and perceived barriers.

Results: Survey results from 122 respondents indicated that the pediatric dysphagia caseload is unexpectedly low given known prevalence of dysphagia across different pediatric populations. Practicing therapists nevertheless consider basic training in pediatric dysphagia inadequate and recommend greater preparatory coursework. The primary perceived barriers to optimal care for children with dysphagia were related to preparatory training and access to resources.

Conclusion: Results support the impression that there is an unmet need for pediatric dysphagia rehabilitation in Taiwan and that a significant barrier to optimal care is the lack of basic training in the area.

Recommended Citation

Brajot, François-Xavier; Wu, Ai-Ju; and Torng, Pao-Chuan (2026) "Experience and Barriers in Pediatric Dysphagia Rehabilitation: A Quantitative Survey Study," Rehabilitation Practice and Science: Vol. 2026: Iss. 2, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6315/3005-3846.2279
Available at: https://rps.researchcommons.org/journal/vol2026/iss2/2