Neat board reduces time to see speech pathologists

CHILLIWACK, BC – When faced with increasing referrals and a need to bring in more staff, the Speech Language Pathology Team at Chilliwack General Hospital saw an opportunity to use technology to their advantage. Their vision was to implement a plan that removed geographical recruitment barriers and allowed patients and clinicians to connect easily.

To achieve their vision, the team recruited clinicians from around the province to work remotely and set up a system where patients can book virtual visits with a speech language pathology provider from the comfort of their homes.

“Patients can receive more immediate consultations, work through real-life communication and swallowing therapy techniques and get valuable education about their condition,” says Tamra Bing, registered speech language pathologist, Chilliwack General Hospital.

Knowing that not all patients have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone, the team piloted the use of a Neat Board in the rehabilitation clinic to make virtual visits accessible to everyone.

“Our patients are now receiving more timely access to care. We have made it easier for them to access speech language pathology services by removing barriers, such as needing to travel to our site,” explained Katie Marochi, registered speech language pathologist/interim clinical practice lead, Chilliwack General Hospital.

The Neat Board is a standalone device that displays a large touch screen with cameras, microphones and speakers integrated into it. This intuitive device allows for enhanced video calls between the patient and their speech language pathology provider as it tracks on screen movements, imitating an in-person session.

“Now patients don’t have to worry about transportation or location, which is beneficial for those in remote areas or people who are unable to leave their homes,” said Marochi.

With the board, patients can come into the hospital to meet with their virtual speech language pathology provider. The board is set up in a private room, and because of its user-friendly and interactive design, patients still receive the personalized care they need.

After the implementation of the Neat Board and virtual services, wait times to see a speech language pathology provider at Chilliwack General Hospital between September 2023 to April 2024 were reduced by 45 weeks.

“This has been a great experience for me,” says Natalie Moreton, registered speech language pathologist. “I feel we are making a positive impact on our patients and clients. The work-life balance allows us to see our patients at home, where they are most comfortable. This gives us a better understanding of what speech, language and swallowing support they need.”

The Speech Language Pathology Team at Chilliwack General Hospital recognized the need for change and successfully leveraged digital tools to make it happen. This is an example of our digital transformation journey in action, demonstrating what is possible when we use technology to enhance patient and provider experiences.

Photo: Digital Neat Board, Chilliwack General Hospital. On screen, clockwise from top left – Tamra Bing, registered speech language pathologist (RSLP); Cathy Lin, RSLP; Meara Brown, RSLP; and Natalie Moreton, RSLP. Standing: Katie Marochi and Mindy Marriott, speech language pathologists, Chilliwack General Hospital.