title: Mechanisms for the effective implementation of an allied health assistant trainee: a qualitative study of a speech language pathology assistant.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This paper explores the impact and mechanisms for successful implementation of a speech language pathology assistant (SLPA) role into a rehabilitation setting using a traineeship approach.
  
  
  METHODS
  Multiple data sources were used, including interviews with key stakeholders, documentary evidence and a workload audit.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The SLPA role increased clinical service capacity by 28 h per week across the service and required a total of 3 h per week of supervision input (the equivalent of 38 min per speech and language pathologist (SLP)). The SLPA used non-clinical time for training and administration. Mechanisms that facilitated the implementation of the SLPA role were: support for existing staff; formal knowledge and skills in training; consultation and engagement; access to a competency framework; close working with the registered training organisation; clearly defined role and delegation boundaries; clear supervision structures; confidence in own role; supportive organisational culture; vision for expansion of the role; engaging the SLPs in training and development; and a targeted recruitment approach.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The development and implementation of a new trainee SLPA role using a traineeship approach required a large amount of supervision and training input from the SLPs. However, it was perceived that these efforts were offset by the increased service capacity provided by the introduction of a trainee role and the high levels of satisfaction with the new role.
authors.affiliation: Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia.
authors.forename: Susan A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Nancarrow
authors.affiliation: Charles Sturt University, School of Community Health, PO Box 789, Albury, NSW 2640, Australia. Email.
authors.forename: Anna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Moran
authors.affiliation: Eastern Health, Arnold Street, Box Hill, Vic. 3128, Australia. Email.
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sullivan
mesh_terms: D000488:Allied Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D002982:Clinical Clerkship; D004493:Education; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012047:Rehabilitation Centers; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology