Speech and Language Therapy Model for Children with Cleft Lip/Palate in Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Benjamas Prathanee PhD*, Tawitree Pumnum BSc*, Pechcharat Jaiyong BSc*, Cholada Seepuaham BSc*, Vieng Xayasin TN**
Affiliation : * Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand ** Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Background : Surgical treatment can reduces disfigurement for children with cleft lip/palate (CLP); however, most children
have persistent speech and language problems especially if speech and language services are not available in underserviced
and/or developing regions and countries. Children in such areas cannot reach appropriate and timely speech therapy
services.
Objective : To establish a speech and language therapy model in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), by combining
the principles of Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR), Primary Health Care (PHC) and institutional medical approaches.
Material and Method: Participatory workshops during which a speech and language therapy model would be developed.
Results : A speech and language therapy model for children with CLP in Lao PDR was established based upon the existing
healthcare system and regional context.
Conclusion : A speech and language therapy model should be implemented among children with CLP in Lao PDR as well as
other developing countries where there is a paucity of speech and language therapy services.
Keywords : Speech therapy model, Speech service, Developing country
