Referral Patterns as a Contextual Variable in Pediatric Brain Injury: A Retrospective Analysis.

Purpose: Access to speech-language pathology (SLP) services is a critical variable in the rehabilitation of pediatric brain injury. In this study, we examined patterns of SLP referral and factors affecting referral during the acute period following brain injury in 2 large pediatric specialty hospitals.

Method: In a retrospective, cohort chart review study, data collection focused on referrals made during the acute period using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for primary diagnoses of brain injury between 2007 and 2014 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2014). A total of 200 charts were reviewed. Data extraction included demographic and injury-related variables, referral for rehabilitation across disciplines, and plans of care following assessment.

Results: Samples for both facilities were similar except for primary mechanism of traumatic brain injuries and severity. SLP referral rate at Hospital 1 was 36% and only 2% at Hospital 2. Regression revealed that individuals were less likely to receive an SLP referral if injury severity was classified as unknown or mild or if they were younger in age.

Conclusion: SLP referral rates in the early acute period for children with brain injury were poor, creating a barrier to rehabilitation. This not only limits access to SLP services, but also may have broader and long-term impact.