Introduction: Multi-Modality Aphasia Treatment (M-MAT) is an established group-based aphasia intervention with effectiveness previously demonstrated in a phase III trial[1]. Adapting M-MAT for telehealth would overcome geographical and logistical barriers to implementation, making therapy more accessible to people with aphasia. The aim of this project was to co-design and test a telehealth adaptation of M-MAT (M-MAT Tele) that meets the requirements of practicing speech pathologists and individuals with aphasia while leveraging telehealth advantages.
Methods: This project involved two phases. In phase one, a Human-Centred Design approach was employed with practising speech pathologists (n=3) and people with aphasia (n=3). Desirable features, context of use, and hardware and software requirements were established. Software was co-designed iteratively through ongoing workshops. Phase two was a pilot trial of M-MAT-Tele in three groups of people with chronic aphasia (n=9). Feasibility and acceptability were explored through a range of measure and clinical outcomes were examined through effect sizes (Cohen’s d).
Result: Phase one produced novel software and a treatment protocol for M-MAT Tele that aligns with key user requirements: compatible with most videoconference platforms, minimal hardware and software requirements, and maximum usability for participants, while containing core elements of in-person M-MAT. Pilot trial data indicated the intervention was feasible and acceptable, with participants highlighting positive experiences with the group-based format. Large effect sizes were seen on word retrieval (1.952), communicative quality of life (1.196) and everyday communication (1.047).
Conclusion: The adaptation of M-MAT for telehealth successfully met the complex requirements of clinicians and people with aphasia. Pilot data support the feasibility and acceptability of M-MAT Tele and clinical outcomes suggest potential efficacy. Further evaluation in a randomized controlled trial is warranted.
Relevance to clinical practice or patient experience: Given its proven underlying treatment approach, M-MAT Tele could offer an accessible, evidence-based and interactive aphasia treatment for people unable to attend in-person therapy.