“‘A band-aid service’: Speech-language pathologists’ perspectives on the challenges they face to support children with paediatric feeding disorder and their families”

Abstract

Purpose: Speech-language pathologists support children with paediatric feeding disorder and their families. However, international research highlights challenges, including inadequate training. While some Australian parents perceive speech-language pathologists as having limited knowledge and interest in paediatric feeding disorder, no studies have explored speech-language pathologists’ experiences in this context. Method: This study examined the perspectives of 11 experienced speech-language pathologists working in a community setting in one Australian city. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and data were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach to explore factors that support or hinder service delivery. Result: Participants emphasised the importance of collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care. They identified a lack of awareness of paediatric feeding disorder among referring professionals and reported feeling underprepared due to insufficient training and the absence of competency guidelines. Systemic barriers including policies and funding constraints and limited families’ access to support, contributed to the perception that speech-language pathologists lack expertise in paediatric feeding disorder. Conclusion: These findings align with international research, emphasising the need for improved training and systemic changes. In the Australian context, addressing funding limitations and developing competency guidelines are critical to enhancing service delivery for children with paediatric feeding disorder.