Speak Out April 2020 DIGITAL VERSION. pdf

APRIL 2020

THE MAGAZINE FOR AUSTRALIAN SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS

SPA Innovation Awards p7

Telepractice FAQs

Member support and COVID-19

New member ONLINE LEARNING platform

A new Realise Business course to start - register now! Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee expanded

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Conte n ts

APRIL 2020

National Office Level 1/114 William Street Melbourne VIC 3000 T 1300 368 835 F 03 9642 4922 E office@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au Chief Executive Officer Gail Mulcair T 03 9642 4899 E execassist@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au Speech Pathology Australia Board Tim Kittel - President

Tell us about your new ways of working

Belinda Hill – Vice President Communications Brooke Sanderson – Vice President Operations Maree Doble – Director Chyrisse Heine – Director Kathryn McKinley - Director Eddie Ong - Director Follow Speech Pathology Australia via:

SpeechPathologyAustralia

@SpeechPathAus

speechpathaus

SpeechPathAus

Speech Pathology Australia

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Copyright © 2020 The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Speak Out is the official bi-monthly magazine of The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Ltd. Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) owns the copyright to Speak Out and no part of this magazine may be reproduced without the explicit permission of SPA. Write to us Letters can be sent to publications@speechpathologyaustralia.org. au Letters may or may not be published in future issues of Speak Out magazine at SPA’s discretion. Advertisements Please refer to the “Publications” menu at www.speechpathology australia.org.au to view the 2020 Speak Out ad kit. Any queries may be directed to SPA Publications Manager T 1300 368 835 E pubs@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au Advertising booking dates for June 2020 Speak Out . The official booking form must be received at national office by COB 7 May, 2020. Speak Out Branch Editors ACT – via pubs@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au New South Wales – Emma Arazzi Northern Territory – Rebecca Amery Queensland – Leanne Sorbello, Catherine Hicks, Erika Campbell and Rebecca Sexton South Australia – Melanie Barrie Tasmania – Rachael Zeeman Victoria – Kim Knight Western Australia – Jamaica Grantis Please see the website for Branch Editor contact details. Disclaimer To the best of The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited’s (‘the Association”) knowledge, this information is valid at the time of publication. The Association makes no warranty or representation in relation to the content or accuracy of the material in this publication. The Association expressly disclaims any and all liability (including liability for negligence) in respect of use of the information provided. The Association recommends you seek independent professional advice prior to making any decision involving matters outlined in this publication. Print Post Approved PP349181/01711 Print ISSN 1446-053X Digital ISSN : ISSN 2208-7125

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From the President

COVID-19 resources for speech pathologists

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Clinical standards through telepractice

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Innovation awards

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee

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Early Career Reference Group

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Professional Education: New Learning Hub

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National Conference

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In practice: Professional practice news

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Branch News

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of lands, seas and waters throughout Australia, and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. We recognise that the health and social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are grounded in continued connection to culture, country, language and community.

Cover pic: Find out about the Association's new online learning platform on p24.

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From the President

Thanks for picking up this issue of Speak Out , with what I assume are pristinely clean hands. This introduction might be a challenging one to write. Let’s face it, after I’ve written this, I could go make myself a hot chocolate and get on with the next activity (jigsaw puzzle anyone?). However, I’m thinking by the time the milk is warm, anything written about today’s world will likely be out of date. The way in which we live, work, and interact has been reshaped abruptly, and continues to alter with phenomenal speed. So instead let’s just focus on what we know about Speech Pathology Australia that is constant, no matter what. As an entire profession, we’ve been looking towards the future for quite some time. Yes, we didn’t necessarily predict COVID-19. But, if you want a spine-tingling moment, turn to page 39 of the SP2030 report. Re-read the scenario titled ‘Recovery through Collaboration’. You’ll find quite a few phrases there relating to early 2020 that will suddenly have new meanings in this world. After huge shake-up, so much changes in terms of our engagement with technology, the scope of practice for speech pathology, and how we might work in a rapidly depleted economy. Spooky, huh? And this is the reason why the association moved so quickly with regards to TeleHealth and offering support for small businesses: we’ve been talking and planning around a range of potential futures for years. It’s therefore not a surprise that the pages you’re about to read through detail the myriad of ways that the Association moved agilely in order to continue services. Immediately after the March Board Meeting, Gail Mulcair relocated all National Office staff offsite with very little notice, setting them up with the technology and resources to be able to perform their roles from home seamlessly. As a result, despite the unprecedented impact of this pandemic, there has been no break in services offered to members. The team are all still connected and communicating. Updates are regularly being posted online, and while the team can’t alleviate the uncertainty, they continue to inspire with their professionalism and responsiveness. The Speecha Pathology Australia Conference is one of my year’s highlights, and I’m excited that all the efforts and planning made by Pamela Richards, Bea Staley, and the CPC haven’t been cancelled, simply postponed. In the meanwhile, there’s no need to worry about the impact on Professional Education. The last time I was in National Office, I laughed when I saw Maree Brown’s wall absolutely covered in post-it notes, with intricate plans for revolutionising the way in which we access learning. And of course, the joke’s on me now, because this strategy means we keep developing in our professional learning, right through until the time comes when we are back together in Darwin. Now that’s going to be a Conference Dinner to remember. As I read through this issue of SpeakOut, I’m resolute in my belief that while it’s a time of uncertainty for all of us, we’ve got this. On the 14 March, as the Board Meeting finished, I looked up at my colleagues’ faces and couldn’t help but smile. It was a hefty agenda, but we’d worked together through a range of responses. I want to thank them for their increased diligence at this time, while also recognising the contributions of past Board and Council members, whose combined wisdom and advice set our association up to be strong and responsive. For a profession all about bringing people together, the notion of “social distance” is tricky. So, we’ll do what we do best: rewrite the narrative. Continue to bring people together in communication and mealtimes, while keeping them safe. Stay vigilant, stay well, and stay amazing. See you at the AGM!

Tim Kittel

Tim Kittel National President

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Association news

Board meeting report March 2020

The first Board meeting for 2020 was held in Melbourne on 13 - 14 March. The agenda for this meeting covered a broad range of topics, however none quite as pressing as the need for the Association to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 Pandemic The Board considered the broad range of impacts associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, on the Association, the Membership, speech pathology students and those with communication difficulties. The need to provide current, relevant and ongoing information to the membership, via a range of means such as eNews and social media was acknowledged, with employees to remain accessible, via both telephone and email, to respond to member queries. The sharing of information through member Facebook Groups was also acknowledged as being highly valuable. The ability for national office staff to continue to provide highly responsive member services through this time, from a remote location was discussed. A business continuity and specific COVID-19 Action Plan has been put in place and activated for this period. In addition, the Association is aiming to support members with new initiatives, including the provision of a complimentary webinar, 'Recovering from business interruption due to the Covid-19', formed by Realise Business, and the formation of a dedicated telehealth resource. These resources are accessible via Speech Pathology Australia’s website. The Association has also taken the necessary step to postpone the planned National Conference in Darwin this May. This conference has since been rescheduled and will run from 30 May – 2 June 2021. While we are very disappointed given the excellent work of the 2020 Conference Planning Committee, we anticipate much of the same in terms of program and events will be put in place for next year. The Association’s Annual General Meeting and Awards Ceremony will be via virtual means, with members encouraged to support this initiative. Details of this event will be circulated once confirmed. Some of the other key discussions from the meeting are noted below: Majority World Countries and Developing Communities Grant A significant increase in the competition for the Majority World Countries and Developing Communities Grants has been experienced over the last two years, with the Board acknowledging the need to utilise members with specific knowledge in this area, to redesign the review process. Accordingly, all current applications have been placed on hold at this time. While we are regretful for the delay to outcomes, it is important to ensure a fair and equitable review process for all applicants.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee The Association remains highly committed to a process of reconciliation and addressing the inequities faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as outlined within the Reconciliation Action Plan. In order to further progress the items outlined within the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), the Association is seeking the engage a RAP Support Project Officer. In addition, amendments to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee’s Terms of Reference were accepted, including an expansion of the committee, to allow for a broader representation of advice and views from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Directors, Branch Chairs and Association staff will be participating in the biennial, national survey of reconciliation, the 'Workplace Reconciliation Barometer', due to commence in April 2020 (this has since been postponed). 2019 Financial year accounts and audit outcomes The meeting featured a presentation of the 2019 Financial Year Accounts and Audit outcomes, by the Association’s appointed auditors HLB Mann Judd. Once finalised the financial statements will be provided to all members within the 2019 Annual Report. With COVID-19 related restrictions in place, members will be invited to attend the 2020 Annual General Meeting and Awards Ceremony, via electronic means. We look forward to bringing you further information regarding this shortly. 2020 – 2022 Strategic Plan The Association’s 2020 – 2022 Strategic Plan has been finalised, with project plans having been formed to progress a range of priority projects. A copy of the 2020 – 2022 Strategic Plan summary will be made available to all members shortly. The Board also reviewed the outcomes of the 2017-2019 Strategic Plan, acknowledging how ambitious this plan was and the significant amount of work undertaken within the period. Climate change In acknowledging that climate change is a priority for members and the community, the Board agreed to form a working party to provide recommendations on measures the Association, members and clients can take to manage the impact of climate change, with a focus on the impact on those with communication and swallowing difficulties. The Board will next meet, via electronic means, on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May 2020. Gail Mulcair Chief Executive Officer

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The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant implications for health professionals, including speech pathology, working across all public and private sectors. While there may be issues and concerns common to allied health, there can also be specific implications for different professions. The Association has created a dedicated webpage to help members find the latest information as it relates to working through the current climate and broader issues relating to COVID-19. The Association’s COVID-19 News and Information landing page provides a direct link to the Australian Government Department of Health website which provides the latest government news and updates, plus specific guidance for Health and Aged Care Workers. Importantly, the Government site also includes information on the symptoms of COVID-19 and how you can look after yourself and stay well. Chronologically based updates from SPA then follow, which includes a range of specific guidance and updates. Further information on each of these updates are then linked to dedicated pages, including the following: Impact on speech pathologists • includes guidance in relation to speech pathology procedures and service delivery; practice and financial supports for speech pathology businesses; resources for the public; and changes and updates in relation to Association functions, (i.e., qualification and competency assessments), events and professional development. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented times for all on a very global scale. The Board and the staff team at Speech Pathology Australia know that these current times are filled with uncertainty and anxiety from many perspectives, both professionally and personally, and have created many challenges for our members. As we have communicated, the Association wants to assure you that the health and safety of our members, staff and community is at the heart of all decisions that the Association is making as we respond to the daily changes and challenges in relation to the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). There are regular updates from the Government and other sources, which we immediately pass onto members through our dedicated COVID-19 webpage, as well as our social media platforms including our Facebook communities. These have proved to be excellent places for the Association and members alike to share resources. As a speech pathology community, we are collaboratively doing a great job in keeping everyone informed and supported – as has been said, “we’re all in this together”. reponse and resources to support members COVID-19 The Association's

Telepractice advice and resources • provides the Association’s position on telepractice/ telehealth, useful FAQs and resources including important considerations for determining a client’s appropriateness and suitability for telepractice, relevant professional development events, as well as advice on certain telepractice IT requirements and platforms. Medicare, DVA and private health funds • provides updates from the different funding schemes on policies and parameters under which clients may be able to access rebates for a telehealth service, with this still evolving at this time. As the available information and resources are continually being updated, we encourage members to regularly visit the Association’s COVID-19 pages. You can also stay up-to-date with developments by joining our Facebook member communities, follow SPA’s twitter feeds, and keeping an eye out for dedicated email updates and for our National eNews distributed each month. Gail Mulcair Chief Executive Officer As we informed members through a dedicated email, from Monday 23 March, the Association transitioned to a fully remote office for the foreseeable future. We took this step even before a full lockdown, as we believed that this was the socially responsible thing to do, to protect staff, their families and the broader community. The Association’s functions and services have continued to operate at full capacity during this time and we are very fortunate that staff are equipped and capable to provide necessary support and assistance to members as well as the broader speech pathology profession. The Association recognises this is a very stressful time; however, it is heartening to reflect on the resilience of our members, Board and staff which will see our profession thrive and continue to deliver critical services to the clients we serve. Below is an overview of the updates, supports and resources provided to date, but acknowledge as things are moving rapidly, that further updates will have been provided from the time of going to print.

COVID-19 as it impacts members and the speech pathology profession

Go to the Association's COVID-19 page

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Business as usual for national office support

NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF HAVE TRANSITIONED TO WORKING REMOTELY BUT THE SPA TEAM REMAINS FULLY EQUIPPED AND READY TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO MEMBERS.

Member support A number of dedicated staff along with a range of external organisations can assist in answering members’ questions about speech pathology service delivery, private practice, ethical issues, industrial and human resources, and legal matters, particularly during this period of COVID-19. Practice and clinical support The Manager of Professional Practice and the team of advisors and senior advisors are responsible for responding to professional practice related enquiries from members, consumers and others. Advisors also provide support to members, including those in private practice and providing services under the NDIS, though development of website resources including guides, information sheets and templates, and development of a range of online resources Ethics and professional issues The Manager Ethics and Professional Issues (MEPI) and Ethics Advisor provides advice and support to members and the general public regarding the ethical and professional conduct of speech pathologists. MEPI also supports the Ethics Board in the education of members regarding the Code of Ethics and professional issues, and in the management of formal complaints. Professional standards The Manager of Professional Standards and Senior Advisors provide responses to queries in relation to university accreditation, assessment of those with overseas qualifications and those speech pathologists wishing to return to practice. Queries may be received regarding specific professional standards advice, including the position of the Association as outlined in position statements and clinical guidelines. Support to the membership team is also provided regarding currency and recency of practice enquiries. Industrial relations and human resources Speech Pathology Australia engages the services of WorkPlace Plus as a specialist in industrial relations, human resource

management and employment law across Australia. Contact WorkPlace Plus. If you have questions about your employer obligations as a result of COVID-19 please contact WorkPlacePLUS for advice and support. You can also view the recently produced webinar about this topic. Association members receive special member benefits with WorkPlacePLUS for support with HR & IR issues. For more information, contact Anna on 0419 533 434 or visit www.WorkPlacePLUS.com.au . WorkPlace Plus also provide industrial and award advice. Initial advice for members is free. Professional indemnity insurance Guild Insurance works with the Association to ensure that as a speech pathologist, members have the insurance they need to confidently care for their clients. Guild policy holders have been provided with specific communication in relation to COVID-19. For general enquiries about professional indemnity and public

liability insurance contact Guild Insurance . Contacting the Association

Members can still contact the Association,13000 368 835, or 03 9642 4899, office@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au or advisor@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au , or via posts to the relevant member Facebook groups.

Go to the Association's member support page

Care to share? Has the way you work changed? Have you discovered a new way of working or resources and tips that might help other speech pathologists as we navigate through this new way of working during the COVID-19 crisis? Your ideas will be shared in a special feature in the June edition of Speak Out . You may have tips, articles, thoughts, ideas and resources, or anything you think other members might find useful. Send them to the Publications Manager, Rebecca Faltyn rfaltyn@ speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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COVID-19 new resource Guidance for service delivery, clinical procedures and infection control

Speech Pathology Australia recognises that speech pathologists and authorities are seeking guidance regarding speech pathology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Association has developed a statement aimed to provide in-principle guidance relating to speech pathology service delivery, clinical procedures that pose particular risks, and infection control to minimise transmission of COVID-19. This guidance is provided in the context of a rapidly evolving health care emergency and is subject to change as new data and

information becomes available. The Association will continue to provide important updates to members on these critical clinical management decisions. The graphic below was formulated as part of the guidance for service statement and outlines the key actions to undertake prior to speech pathology service delivery. The full guidance document for speech pathologists can be downloaded from the Association's dedicated COVID-19 webpage.

Key actions prior to speech pathology service delivery

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MBS telehealth items as result of COVID-19

The Department of Health has announced that from 13 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 (inclusive) new temporary MBS telehealth items are available to help reduce the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 and provide protection for patients and health care providers. Some of new temporary MBS telehealth items are available to speech pathologists.

Below is a summary of the existing MBS items and the new equivalent telehealth/telephone items that are available to speech pathologists. Additional information can be found at: MBS online, Covid 19 Telehealth MBS items It is important that if you are billing under these item codes you are familiar with the guidelines and notes about billing—you can search for details about each item code at www.mbsonline.gov.au.

ALLIED HEALTHATTENDANCES These services need to be bulk billed for vulnerable patients, concession card holders and children under 16 years, and are for non-admitted patients * Service Existing Items face to face Telehealth items/video conference Telephone items – for when video conferencing is not available Chronic disease management Speech pathology CDM service 10970 93000 93013 Autismmanagement

Speech pathology early intervention services for children with autism, pervasive developmental disorder or disability, under 13 years – assessment/ diagnosis item Speech pathology services for children with autism, pervasive developmental disorder or disability, under 15 years – treatment item

82005

93033

93041

82020

93036

93044

Follow-up Allied Health Services for people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent

Allied Follow-up CDM services (all 13 items)

81360

93048

93061

On 20 April, The Department of Health indicated that previous requirements to bulk bill under these new item numbers is no longer a legislative requirement. All MBS items for referred attendances require a valid referral. However, if you have previously seen the client under a referral that is still valid, there is no need to obtain a specific referral for the purposes of claiming the new temporary MBS telehealth items. Information about this announcement can be seen in the following Department of Health's press release (20 April 2020).

Please note that the above information is current as of 20 April 2020 and could change in response to an array of circumstances including the advocacy work that the Association is continuing to do at this time. Please continue to check MBS Online, the latest News for MBS Online and updates about Medicare, DVA and Private Health Funds page on the SPA website. It is also strongly recommended treating speech pathologists familiarise themselves with the following fact sheets on the MBS webpage : • Provider FAQs • Allied health telehealth services FAQ • Temporary MBS telehealth services FAQ • Consumer FAQ

Nichola Harris Manager Professional Practice

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Your professional development

The primary focus of the Association is the health and well-being of members. Significant time and resources are being devoted to ensure, as best as the Association can, the continuity of member learning during this evolving climate. The Association’s Professional Education Team has developed a delivery strategy to ensure our forthcoming events remain accessible to speech pathologists, albeit, via an alternative format. The strategy involves a blended learning format consisting of self- paced online learning and live-streaming facilitation. The professional education team will also deliver a number of recorded online presentations on telepractice. These are • Telepractice: Paediatric dysphagia, • Telepractice: Adult dysphagia, • Telepractice: Family-centred care, and • Telepractice: Complex disability. Speak Up will release a podcast interview by Associate Professor Cori Williams and Dr Clare Burns on Telepractice dysphagia. Go to Speak Up The Association is very fortunate that a good deal of its professional development program is already offered online. The Association is ramping this up even further as it considers all upcoming events for online delivery. What is happening in relation to current face- to-face workshops? All face-to-face workshops have been cancelled for the

foreseeable future. The Association is working to contact all speakers and put in place plans for workshops to be online. Members already registered for an event will be contacted directly by their state coordinator to give them an update. At this time, members will have the option of moving to an online workshop or withdrawing with a full refund. Where a workshop is amended to become an online event, the cost differential will be refunded. As the Association moves to online delivery, first preference will be given for those members who have already registered for the face-to-face workshop. Where places are available, these will be offered nationally. This may mean some events will be repeated. Announcements will be made on the Assocation's Events page, through eNews and the Branch Facebook groups. Will I be able to earn enough PSR points in 2020? There are many opportunities to earn PSR points with online study resources as well as self-directed study. With the development of even more webinars, Speak Up podcasts, webisodes and online courses are underway. While all of this is occurring, members should keep a look out for regular updates. Again, the health and safety of members and staff will be paramount in these decisions. Visit the Association's COVID-19 webpage for the latest information and updates.

Maree Brown Manager Professional Education

Have you visited the new Member Learning Hub? Read more on page 24 or visit www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/lms

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Do I still have to perform client-facing work? COVID-19 FAQ for allied health practitioners

This FAQ has been developed in response to several concerns by SPA members, who are being asked to continue to provide face-to-face allied health services to clients during the current COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to note that the following advice is general in nature and cannot be considered as blanket advice. The employment arrangements for each individual workplace are unique and must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. In addition, the rules may vary depending on your state or territory. I am a speech pathologist working in a medium sized practice. My direct manager still requires me to come into the practice, but I don’t want to do face-to face work. Do I have to come in to work? While the rules may vary depending on your state or territory, all of Australia is currently under Stage 3 coronavirus restrictions. For example, in Victoria, one of the few exceptions to the current “stay at home” and “restricted activities” direction is to attend work or education, where you can’t do those things remotely, and that allied health services are allowed to continue to operate as normal. If your organisation provides a safe workplace and has complied with all of the current Stage 3 restrictions directed by your state or territory, then yes, your manager can reasonably direct you to attend work. If you feel uncomfortable attending the work site, or seeing clients face- to-face, this is your personal preference, and it is recommended that you request a meeting with your manager to discuss your concerns, and explore with the organisation if there is a way to accommodate your preference to work from home using telehealth. Some organisations have been able to make reasonable adjustments to work, to enable staff to work from home through telehealth, or come to another mutually agreeable arrangement. If you are unable to come to an agreement with your manager, you may request to access your accrued annual leave entitlements or take leave without pay during this time due to your personal preference to isolate during the pandemic. For help understanding your leave entitlements, please contact WorkPlacePLUS. If you are feeling unwell or are required to self-isolate for medical reasons, or because you have been exposed to COVID-19, you must not attend work. Do I have to continue to see clients in their homes? Please refer to the response to question 1. The Australian Government Department of Health document dated 6 April 2020, titled 'Fact sheet: In-home care workers ', provides the following advice: “As an in-home care worker, you are providing an essential service. Home care services should be still delivered to care recipients with necessary precautions in place…but it is vitally important during this

unprecedented time that continuity of service by providers is maintained and that we all stay connected…If you are in a group who are considered vulnerable to more serious infection (including aged over 70 years, non-Indigenous and are aged 65 years or older with a chronic illness or are Indigenous and aged 50 years or older with a chronic illness) you should discuss with your employer how best to manage your own risk at work.” I don’t feel safe providing face-to-face services. Do I still have to come in to work? Your employer is obligated to provide a safe working environment. If your employer complies with Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) laws and have implemented Government advice on control measures to minimise the spread of COVID-19 , then yes, your manager can reasonably expect you to attend work. If your employer is putting you at risk by failing to comply with WHS requirements or failing to implement a robust i nfection control policy or pandemic plan , then you may have a reasonable right to refuse to attend work or to be sent home with full pay. For specific advice in this regard, please contact WorkPlacePLUS . If you hold genuine fears for your health and safety, it is recommended that you request an urgent meeting with your manager to discuss your concerns. If necessary, you can report non-compliance of WHS laws to the WHS authority in your jurisdiction. See also the response to question 1. I have not been provided personal protective equipment (PPE). Do I still have to come in to work? It is important for both the employer and the employee to know infection control measures that may be required by each state or territory. If there is a requirement to wear PPE and your employer does not provide it, then you may have a reasonable right to refuse to attend work or to be sent home with full pay. If there is no requirement to wear PPE ,and yet you still refuse to attend work because you have not been provided with PPE, this is your personal preference, and it is recommended that you request a meeting with your manager to discuss your concerns, and explore with the organisation if there is a way to accommodate your preference to work from home using telehealth. If you are unable to come to an agreement with your manager, you may request to access your accrued annual leave entitlements or take leave without pay. In the Australian Government Department of Health webinar with Professor Michael Kidd AM and Dr Andrew Singer, dated 26 March 2020, titled ' COVID-19 response update for allied health practitioners ', the advice was that, considering the worldwide shortage of PPE, priority should be given to practitioners working with high risk clients, or suspected or known cases of COVID-19, and therefore practitioners need to make their own risk assessments based on individual clients, and, “where a client is currently low risk, there is no need for you to wear personal protective equipment.”

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As part of the Government’s above-mentioned COVID-19 response update for primary care and allied health practitioners series , the Australian Government Department of Health offered another webinar on 9 April 2020, where Professor Michael Kidd AM, Dr Nick Coatsworth and Penny Shakespeare answered questions from health care workers across all care settings including allied health. You can access the recording here . The Australian Government Department of Health document Information on surgical masks - Version 5 (26/03/2020) Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) provides the following advice to health care workers: “During the course of their work, health care workers may be exposed to patients who are suspected or confirmed of having COVID-19. When caring for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, health care workers are required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) (masks, gloves, eye shields and/ or gowns) to protect themselves from infectious illnesses and help stop the spread of disease. The PPE required will depend on the type of interaction. It is important that our health workforce remains strong and healthy during this time. Information for health care workers looking after patients in hospitals and non-inpatients is available at www.health.gov.au/covid19- resources. ” See also the response to question 1. As far as I am aware, my workplace has not implemented an infection control policy or pandemic plan. What should I do? While infection control requirements may vary depending on your state or territory, all staff should be required to practice social distancing and good hygiene practices, which should be detailed in their infection control policy and pandemic plan . If you are not aware of your workplace’s infection control policy or pandemic plan, you should request a copy from your manager. By now, all employers should have had their crisis teammeetings, operationalised their pandemic plan regarding COVID-19, and provided regular communications and updates to their staff. If you believe that this has not occurred in your workplace, you should discuss your concerns with your manager. Employers who need assistance creating or updating infection control or pandemic planning policies and documentation should contact WorkPlacePLUS for support. Further resources for the healthcare sector can also be found here . I have tried to raise my concerns with my manager, but nothing has been resolved. What should I do? It is important that open communication is maintained so that all parties can work together to find the best solutions to any issues or concerns. If you require tailored support or further advice on how to manage discussions with your employer during the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact WorkPlacePLUS . During this difficult time, it is best-practice for employers take a compassionate approach to resolving any concerns that their employees may have. Practitioners or staff who choose to withdraw their services would generally receive unpaid leave; however, employers may offer paid leave or alternative working arrangements in these unusual pandemic circumstances. Remember that you simply cannot take this advice on board without considering the unique circumstances of your workplace–it is highly recommended that you seek specific advice . Most importantly, practice owners, speech pathologists and staff should always make clear, direct communication a priority. Anna Pannuzzo Director of WorkPlacePLUS SPA members receive special member benefits with WorkPlacePLUS for support with HR & IR issues affecting your practice. For more information, contact Anna on 0419 533 434 or visit www.WorkPlacePLUS.com.au.

Free in-clinic hearing test for children

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An estimated 1 in 10 school children suffer from hearing loss, which left undetected can lead to speech, learning and behavioural problems. The Sound Scouts hearing check is a simple way to identify if a child has a hearing issue, including listening difficulties in noise. The test incorporates the science of a hearing test in a fun interactive game. Evidence based, accessible and delivering immediate results, it’s the perfect in-clinic solution.

The Sound Scouts App is now free to test all Australian school-aged children. Download it today.

www.soundscouts.com.au

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Maintaining clinical standards through TELEPRACTICE

Speech Pathology Australia is aware that interest in the use of telepractice (telehealth) has increased in response to the outbreak of coronavirus COVID-19. The following FAQs are intended to provide guidance and resources to members to responsibly implement and maintain clinical standards through telepractice. What is Speech Pathology Australia’s position on telepractice? The Association supports the use of telepractice as a service delivery model where it is based on current evidence-based practice and is at least equivalent to standard clinical care. Members who engage in telepractice need to ensure they have appropriate skills and technology and are bound by the Association’s Code of Ethics and other Core Documents. Speech pathologists are urged to become familiar with the Association's Position Statement: Telepractice in Speech Pathology . How do I know what services are appropriate to offer through telepractice? As with other methods of service delivery, speech pathologists should seek evidence related to telepractice. The Position Statement: Telepractice in Speech Pathology contains a review of current evidence. Members may also perform a search such as 'telepractice' or 'telehealth' on SpeechBITE. The evidence for some areas of practice suggest that benefit is contingent on related factors, such as having a trained support person or other health practitioner onsite with the client. Where there is no evidence published, clinicians should utilise the same decision- making process for other treatments or methods that do not yet have published evidence. SPA’s worksheet, Ethical decision making: Should I use this therapy approach? can help guide members through this process. Members are encouraged to

seek professional support from those with experience offering telepractice services. What clients are appropriate to be served through telepractice? Clinicians should assess individual client needs and determine the appropriateness of this method of service delivery on a case-by- case basis. Speech pathologists should consider any factors that may impact the provision of services, including: Sensory and physical characteristics: This may include vision, hearing, motor dexterity, physical endurance and positioning. Cognitive, behavioural and motivational characteristics: Consider attention, ability to sit and focus on a computer, understanding and perception of a remote interaction. Communication characteristics: Including auditory comprehension, sign language use, speech intelligibility, skill and need for written language, use of AAC, severity of communication deficits and their impact. Support resources: Such as availability of technology, ability of carer to support technology and service provision. (Speech Pathology Australia, 2014 and American Speech- Language-Hearing Association, n.d.) What technology is required to offer telepractice services? Acquisition and use of technology should be driven by client needs. Speech pathologists are encouraged to familiarise themselves with technology options and how they can be implemented to accommodate specific situations. Areas to consider may include: Hardware: Identify what computer will be used at clinician site

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and client site. Determine if processing speed and memory support videoconferencing. Identify whether the device requires the client to sit at a desk or if it offers some flexibility and mobility. Webcam: Internal (embedded) webcams may facilitate face-to- face communication. External webcams or document cameras permit flexibility in observing or the ability to view work performed on a horizontal surface. Audio: Assess whether clinician and client microphone/speakers permit appropriate observation and communication. Some environments or communication needs may require a headset. Platform: Evaluate functions of your platform and how the client will interact during the session. Screen share, whiteboards, drawing tools and shared keyboard/mouse controls are features commonly used by telepractitioners. Assess the security features of the platform. Although some free versions of videoconference platforms exist, these often have a session time limit which may be disruptive to services. Connectivity: Determine if the internet at both the client and clinician site supports a clear connection. This can be assessed from websites such as www.speedtest.net. The upload/download speeds required will depend on the platform and materials being used. However, a general minimum standard is 3 Mbps for static materials and 5 Mbps for video, gaming, etc. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, n.d.) Clinicians should be familiar with technology and platform functionality prior to engaging in services and should be able to familiarise and guide clients and carers. Practices are encouraged to develop procedures and protocols to manage training and navigate technical support issues as they arise. Policy and procedure templates and guides, available on the Association’s Private Practice Essentials page, may be useful in developing these. Does someone need to be onsite with the client? In the majority of cases, it is beneficial or necessary to have a carer, or facilitator, present with the client. This individual may resolve technical issues, support service provision as appropriate, manage materials and camera angles, verify observations, and respond to urgent situations. Facilitators are key in ensuring that the client’s environment is private, secure, and distraction- free. Although some clients may be safely and effectively served without an onsite facilitator, having someone else present helps to reduce risk and promote generalisation of skills to other contexts. Depending on the situation, the facilitator role could be filled by AHAs, parents, partners, teachers, support workers, or other professionals. speech pathologists should evaluate individual procedures and determine whether a facilitator requires specific skills to support them and if the facilitator has skills to support a session Speech pathologists should help facilitators understand the role of each person in the interaction and any activities, materials, etc. that are required in a session. Do different funding streams support the use of telepractice for speech pathology? NDIS Yes. Clients being served under NDIS, regardless of how their plan is managed, may receive speech pathology services through telepractice. DVA In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, consultations and clinical assessments may be delivered by speech pathologists to all eligible DVA clients via telephone or video conferencing attendance for the period 1 April to 30 September 2020. The updated fee schedule for speech pathologists that incorporates the telehealth items and information about determining if it is clinically appropriate to deliver a service via telehealth can be found on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website. Medicare The Department of Health have announced that from 13 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 (inclusive) new temporary

"...the provision of telepractice is a learnt skill and (the Association) encourages members to seek professional development and support prior to commencing." services."

MBS telehealth items are available to help reduce the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 and provide protection for patients and health care providers. Some of new temporary MBS telehealth items are available to speech pathologists. More details can be found on page 8 of this edition of Speak Out. Please note that this information could change in response to the circumstances and advocacy work that the Association is continuing to do at this time. Please continue to check MBS Online , the latest News for MBS Online and updates about Medicare, DVA and Private Health Funds page on the SPA website. Private Insurance It depends. In response to the COVID–19 pandemic more and more private health funds are electing to cover telehealth sessions. Rules around use of telehealth items do vary across the PHFs so providers do need to be aware of these requirements. Updates about PHFs will be provided on the Association's COVID 19 news page . Updates about Medicare, DVA and Private Health Funds page will be on the SPA website when they are shared with the Association. TAC The TAC has announced the introduction of new telehealth codes as a response to COVID-19. TAC are currently updating billing information on their website. TAC have confirmed that speech pathologists can deliver telehealth services to TAC clients with reassurance that they will be paid at the current TAC face- to-face rate. Telehealth invoices can be backdated to 13 March 2020. See Information for TAC providers for updates and more details. Are there specific risks associated with offering telepractice services? Telepractice is a relatively new method of service delivery. As with any developing area there may be gaps in evidence, policy or precedent to guide these services. The largely digital and remote nature of telepractice also makes it susceptible to certain online risks. The following considerations may assist members to reduce professional and clinical risk and engage in responsible service- provision: Informed consent: Obtain informed consent from both the service provider and clients or decision-makers. Ensure that each understand processes and procedures that will be used, disclose benefits and limitations of telepractice, and share any other relevant information, such as whether a rebate will be available for the session. Indemnity insurance: All members are encouraged to have their own professional indemnity insurance. Those engaging in telepractice should inform their insurance provider and seek appropriate advice. Privacy : Ensure that the client and clinician site is secure and permits the session to remain confidential. Records and

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Telepractice resources

Relevant Association Documents The Association's Position Statement on Telepractice in Speech Pathology Telepractice FAQs FAQs - Technology, Privacy and Security for Telepractice The Speech Pathology Australia Code of Ethics Informed Consent for Telepractice template Find all of the above resources on the Association's

Telepractice webpage. Online presentations Telepractice: Paediatric dysphagia, Telepractice: Adult dysphagia, Telepractice: Family-centred care Telepractice: Complex disability. Podcast

Speak Up will release a podcast interview by Associate Professor Cori Williams and Dr Clare Burns on Telepractice dysphagia. Go to Speak Up Free webinar To help members who have an urgent need to upskill in this area, SPA has made one of its webinars, Telepractice in speech pathology – principles and practicalities by Dr Clare Burns, available to members free of charge. Evidence based-practice SpeechBITE information may be found by performing a search for 'telepractice' or 'telehealth.' ASHA Evidence Map: Telepractice The Informed SLP: Information on EBP and telepractice ASHA article : Weidner & Lowman, (2020). Telepractice for Adult Speech-Language Pathology Services: A Systematic Review. Speech Pathology Australia ethics : Ethical decision making: Should I use this therapy approach? Guide for members. The International Journal of Telerehabilitation : An open-access journal addressing telehealth in allied health professions The Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children has published an instructional e-book , RIDBC Teleschool: Guiding Principles for Telepractice, available on iOS devices. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) maintains a Practice Portal offering information on key issues and resources in telepractice. Although some information is specific to practice in the United States, many principles may be applicable to Australian practitioners. Go to the Association's Telepractice page

documents should be transmitted and stored in a secure way. Only use a secure internet server for sessions or to transmit information. See SPA's new FAQ- Technology, Privacy and Security for Telepractice Emergency plan : Identify a plan to respond to urgent situations and confirm this with the onsite facilitator and other stakeholders. Identify contact information for local emergency or medical services. Recordings: If the speech pathologist believes there is a clinical need or justification for the session to be recorded, then the speech pathologist could do so after informing the client and obtaining their consent for the recording to occur. If any part of a consultation is recorded, that recording forms part of the client’s record and must be managed and stored in accordance with the principles applying to all other elements of the client’s record. Where can I learn more about how to offer effective telepractice services? The Association reminds members that the provision of telepractice is a learnt skill and encourages members to seek professional development and support prior to commencing services. Speech Pathology Australia is currently developing a detailed online learning module. If you have further questions please do not hesitate to contact Speech Pathology Australia on 03 9642 4899 or 1300 368 835 or office@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au References American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (n.d.). Telepractice (Practice Portal). Retrieved March, 12, 2020, from: https://www.asha.org/Practice-Portal/Professional- Issues/Telepractice/ Speech Pathology Australia (2014) Position Statement: Telepractice in Speech Pathology, Melbourne, Australia. The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Ltd.

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