Development of a Mobile SLT Clinic: A Case of East Africa

Abstract

Background: In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the ratio of persons with communication disabilities to speech-language therapists is adverse. People living in urban areas in some countries are much more likely to receive treatment than those living in rural areas. Mobile health care is a community-based strategy that provides solutions to speech-language therapy (SLT) delivery to underserved and at-risk populations. Methodology: This multinational project report elaborates on the culturally appropriate adaptation of the general concept of a mobile clinic to a mobile SLT clinic. The authors from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Europe outline a strategic methodology for developing, equipping, and using the mobile clinic. Results: Challenges, pitfalls, and prospects of developing a culturally sensitive practicing mobile clinic for SLT are discussed. In particular, the collaboration of a multinational project team of experts from sub-Saharan Africa and Europe is critically reviewed. Discussion: While developing a culturally appropriate and mobile SLT clinic, a cost-benefit analysis became one of the main tasks. SLTs need to question themselves whether there is a need for expensive inventories or low-cost basic equipment for assessment and therapy, or both.