University of Queensland News (April 2026) – Online aphasia treatment improves quality of life
Research from the University of Queensland suggests that online speech pathology programs may significantly improve communication outcomes and quality of life for people living with aphasia, particularly those in rural and remote communities.
The study focused on a telehealth-based version of the Comprehensive High-dose Aphasia Treatment (CHAT) program, known as TeleCHAT. Delivered via videoconferencing, the program enables people with aphasia to access intensive speech therapy from home, reducing the need for long-distance travel to specialist services.
Aphasia is a communication disorder commonly caused by stroke that can affect speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. It often has a major impact on a person’s ability to participate in everyday conversation, social interaction, and employment.
Researchers found that participants in the TeleCHAT program reported improvements in communication ability and confidence after completing the structured therapy blocks. Clinicians involved in the study also noted high levels of engagement and satisfaction among participants, including those living hours away from the nearest health facility.
The program is based on the in-person CHAT model developed at the University of Queensland’s Queensland Aphasia Research Centre (QARC), which delivers intensive, evidence-based therapy involving high doses of language practice over several weeks.
According to the research team, one of the key strengths of the telehealth approach is its ability to remove geographic barriers while maintaining the intensity and structure of traditional face-to-face therapy. This makes it particularly valuable for patients in regional and rural Australia, where access to specialist speech pathology services can be limited.
The findings also highlight broader implications for rehabilitation services, suggesting that telehealth models may help reduce inequities in access to care and support long-term recovery for people with communication disorders.
Ongoing work is now focused on refining the TeleCHAT model, improving accessibility, and exploring how it can be integrated into routine clinical speech pathology services.
Written by Clare Jones (B Occ Thy) Director at MediRecruit