PACS - A FRAMEWORK FOR DETERMINING APPROPRIATE SERVICE DELIVERY OPTIONS

Changes in demographic and economic trends, as well as reforms in heal th care and education, have encouraged speech-language pathologists to expand the service delivery options they offer. Practitioners are sea rching for service delivery models that promote clients' functional sk ills, are cost-effective, and reflect accountability and efficacy. The re is increasing demand for models that incorporate team decision-maki ng and participation. This article provides clinicians with a framewor k for decision-making and service delivery by encouraging speech-langu age pathologists and their colleagues to consider the unique combinati on of providers, activities, and contexts (PACs) necessary to meet the specific needs of each individual with a communication disorder.