Current training and continuing education needs of preschool and school-based speech-language pathologists regarding children with cleft lip/palate.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to obtain information regarding the education and experience of preschool and school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) regarding the assessment and treatment of children born with cleft lip and/or palate and to determine their continuing education needs in this area.


METHODS
A 16-item mixed-methods survey to collect quantitative and qualitative data was distributed via postal mail to a geographically diverse random sample of 565 preschool and school SLPs.


RESULTS
The response rate was 59%. With an average of 15.93 years in practice, respondents reported that they infrequently saw children with cleft lip/palate. When treating these children, respondents wanted communication with the cleft-craniofacial team, accessible continuing education through Web sites and conferences, and clinically practical information relevant to the school setting.


CONCLUSIONS
When assessing and treating a low-incidence population such as children with cleft-related communication disorders, school-based SLPs need accessible, accurate continuing education resources and collaboration with specialists in the field.
Bedwinek
Anne P
AP
St. John's Mercy Medical Center, Child Development Center, 641 New Ballas Road, St. Louis, MO 63141, USA. speechpathmama@yahoo.com
Kummer
Ann W
AW
Rice
Gale B
GB
Grames
Lynn Marty
LM
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002971:Cleft Lip / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003147:Communication Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003479:Curriculum; D004496:Education, Continuing; D004519:Education, Special; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology / Q000193:education*