An Overview of Speech Therapy and Audiology Services in the Kingdom of Bahrain

Authors

  • Mona Mohammed Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain
  • Latifa Alkoheji Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain

Abstract

The study’s first objective is to present an overview of the demographic information of speech therapists and the current service delivery process provided by government entities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The second objective is to analyze the caseload and workload of the Speech Unit clinics at Salmaniya Medical Complex. The study takes a descriptive, analytical approach to analyze data collected via a web-based online survey (17 questions) to determine demographic information about speech therapists in the Kingdom of Bahrain. A survey was completed by 59 participants: 45 Bahraini therapists and 45 female therapists. The significant findings show that only 24 therapists were based in medical settings, while the rest were school-based. Most speech therapists have bachelor’s degrees, while there are currently seven master's degree holders. Most therapists have less than ten years of experience. Despite the Ministry of Health and the NHRA's support for allied professions, there is a severe shortage of speech therapists in all healthcare facilities and other ministries that offer rehabilitation programs to those with disabilities or in need of services. A cross-national study involving all professionals in the public and private sectors is now required to promote a broader perspective and comprehensive analysis, particularly as the Bahrain health system transitions toward autonomy and health insurance.

Author Biographies

Mona Mohammed, Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain

Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain

Latifa Alkoheji, Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain

Speech therapy Unit, Ear Nose & Threat Department Salmaniya Medical Complex Manama – Kingdom of Bahrain

Additional Files

Published

11/20/2022

How to Cite

Mohammed, M., & Alkoheji, L. (2022). An Overview of Speech Therapy and Audiology Services in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Arab Journal of Applied Linguistics, 7(1), 61–85. Retrieved from https://arjals.com/ajal/article/view/350

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2022): Speech-Language Therapy Services in the Arab World and the Diaspora

Section

New Articles

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