A model of early intervention for children with hearing loss provided through telepractice

Abstract

Children who are deaf and hard of hearing and their families need access to appropriate early intervention services that are delivered by professionals who are well trained and experienced using their chosen communication approach. Unfortunately, a lack of qualified practitioners, especially in remote and rural communities, and limited funding can affect the quality of services that are provided to some children. Advances in telecommunication and distance technology have led to models of telepractice that can provide access to appropriate services and reduce overall costs. While more efficacy research is needed, preliminary findings support the delivery of early intervention services through these distant service delivery models. Professionals who embrace models of telepractice can help to ensure that more children with hearing loss and their families receive the intervention to which they are entitled.