Philippine Journal of Allied Health Sciences 2022;5(2):17-22

doi:10.36413/pjahs.0502.003

Occupational therapy dysphagia management in selected Philippine hospitals during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Consuelo Gonzalez-Suarez 1 ; Ivan Neil Gomez 2

Affiliations

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Keywords

COVID-19; dysphagia; infection control; telehealth; occupational therapy

Country

Philippines

Language

English

Abstract

Due to the nature of dysphagia management, the continuation of its delivery by occupational therapists (OTs) during the COVID-19 pandemic is challenging. The high risk of infection and transmission associated with dysphagia management calls for innovative, safe, and effective strategies. The purpose of this report is to describe the current practices in dysphagia management by OTs in selected Philippine hospitals. Current practices include integrated infection control, telehealth, indirect service delivery, use of acrylic barriers, and exercise videos. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are shaping the practice of occupational therapy in dysphagia management in the current time and beyond.