AI ADOPTION AMONG SPEECH-LANGUAGE THERAPISTS: ATTITUDES, USEFULNESS, AND PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGES

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming healthcare by supporting assessment, diagnosis, documentation, and clinical decision-making. Despite its growing applications in speech-language therapy, limited evidence exists regarding Speech-Language Therapists’ (SLTs) acceptance of AI, particularly in developing countries. This study examined SLTs’ attitudes, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, behavioural intention, and professional challenges associated with AI adoption using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 488 Speech-Language Therapists working in diverse clinical settings across Pakistan. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA. The findings revealed moderately positive attitudes toward AI and high perceived usefulness in enhancing clinical performance and service delivery. However, respondents reported only moderate ease of use and behavioural intention to adopt AI technologies. Professional concerns, particularly regarding digital literacy, training, data privacy, reliability, and algorithmic bias, were substantial. The study concludes that while SLTs recognize the potential benefits of AI, successful implementation requires structured training, ethical guidelines, institutional support, and locally validated AI tools to ensure responsible and effective integration into speech-language therapy practice.