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Use of Speech-to-Text Translation Resources to Address Communication Barriers in Patients With Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Use of Speech-to-Text Translation Resources to Address Communication Barriers in Patients With Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review

Tatiana Ferraro, Nadia L. Samaha, Utkarsh Tannan, Sebastian Sookram, Kevin Wong and Tiffany Peng Hwa
Otology & neurotology, v 45(9), pp 961-970
01 Oct 2024
PMID: 39118242

Abstract

Clinical Neurology Life Sciences & Biomedicine Neurosciences & Neurology Otorhinolaryngology Science & Technology
ObjectivePatients with concomitant limited English proficiency (LEP) and hearing loss may experience communication barriers, not fully mitigated by traditional interpreter services. Although there is no clear consensus on the most reliable and optimal resources for these patients, speech-to-text (STT) applications with translation capability may bridge these barriers. We review the existing literature applying STT translation programs in clinical settings and identify commercially available STT translation resources to evaluate their prospective application in the otology setting.Databases ReviewedPubMed MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science.MethodsA systematic review of English language peer-reviewed literature was conducted, examining STT translation in clinical settings. An additional search identifying STT software with translation capabilities was completed.ResultsSeven out of 591 unique citations met the inclusion criteria, and 29 unique STT translation applications were identified, supporting up to 140 languages. Stakeholders endorse positive perceptions of STT translation programs. Facilitators to implementation included time and cost feasibility, whereas barriers included risk of mistranslation and inability to assess accuracy. Ongoing machine-learning efforts are underway for developing and improving STT translation technologies, but there is paucity of literature evaluating their application in patients with hearing loss.ConclusionsSmall studies have suggested an acceptable level of accuracy for STT translation programs as adjunctive to standard of care services. Further work should proactively address implementation challenges with special attention to use of these technologies for patients with concomitant LEP and HL, while supporting additional technological advancement for application of these technologies in otology practice.

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#10 Reduced Inequalities

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
Web of Science research areas
Clinical Neurology
Otorhinolaryngology
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