Perceptions of speech-language pathologists and speech-language pathology supervisors regarding personnel shortages in the educational setting

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and speech-language pathology supervisors about SLP shortages in the educational setting of a Midwestern state. Participants responded to an internet-based survey focusing on obstacles for filling vacancies, incentives to reduce shortages and strategies used to compensate for shortages. In addition, the study examined the effect of a personnel shortage on the delivery of speech and language services. A significant difference was found between SLPs' and supervisors' perceptions of preferable strategies to address the personnel shortage and service delivery models. In addition, a high positive correlation existed between number of vacancies and number of service delivery models utilized.