Türk Medline
ADR Yönetimi
ADR Yönetimi

SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE: NAVIGATING ATTITUDES, EXPOSURE, AND BARRIERS

Semra Selvi Balo, Eren Balo, Aylin Müge Tunçer

Archives of Health Science and Research - 2025;12(1):1-10

Department of Speech and Language Therapy, Anadolu University

 

Objective: This preliminary study aims to determine whether Speech and Language Pathologists (SLPs) in Türkiye utilize evidence-based practices (EBP) and their attitudes toward EBP . The information sources SLPs use for clinical decision-making, and the relevant barriers they encounter are also among the objectives. Methods: With a descriptive design, this study includes 88 SLPs. A four-section survey containing 46 items was distributed online to the participants. Results: Participants showed a strong consensus (91.3%) regarding the importance of EBP in clinical settings. Those with postgraduate degrees demonstrated more positive attitudes toward EBP than those with only a BA, and overall attitudes were positively correlated with both exposure to and use of EBP ( P < .05). No significant difference was observed in the use of EBP resources between the 2 educational groups. The main barriers identified were quality and the quantity of research, and time constraints. Conclusion: SLPs in Türkiye highly value EBP despite challenges related to resources and time. Increasing opportunities for EBP exposure-through workplace training and internship experiences-and integrating more EBP-related coursework into university curricula could further strengthen its implementation in the field.