Uptake of CATALISE terminology and diagnostic criteria across four countries

Abstract

Background

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is a condition affecting an individual’s ability to understand and/or use language. Terminological confusion, and the use of non-evidence based diagnostic criteria, have impacted access to services for this population for decades. New terminology and diagnostic criteria were proposed in 2017 from a consensus study in the UK (CATALISE). There have been active efforts to support uptake of these findings into policy and practice across several countries.

Methods

Qualitative surveys were conducted across three countries (Germany, Ireland, and UK) and a series of case studies were undertaken by Australian speech language pathologists to explore uptake of the CATALISE recommendations into policy and practice in their service contexts.

Results

Varied responses to the uptake of CATALISE terminology and diagnostic criteria across the different countries were identified. Barriers to uptake of the proposed findings in Germany and Australia related primarily to transferability at a linguistic and cultural level. In the UK and Ireland, contextual integration of new diagnostic processes at the service level was noted as a common barrier to implementation. The need for continued efforts to increase awareness of DLD such that outcomes for this population can be improved was identified across all four countries.

Conclusions

Targeted implementation strategies need to be developed that are responsive to socio-cultural factors to further facilitate the uptake of CATALISE within different countries. Engaging individuals with DLD and their families in future efforts will ensure stakeholders are working towards meaningful improvements in services and supports.