Operationalizing Clinical Speech Analytics: Moving From Features to Measures for Real-World Clinical Impact

Abstract

Objective: This research note advocates for a methodological shift in clinical speech analytics, emphasizing the transition from high-dimensional speech feature representations to clinically validated speech measures designed to operationalize clinically relevant constructs of interest. The aim is to enhance model generalizability and clinical applicability in real-world settings. Method: We outline the challenges of using conventional supervised machine learning models in clinical speech analytics, particularly their limited generalizability and interpretability. We propose a new framework focusing on speech measures that are closely tied to specific speech constructs and have undergone rigorous validation. This research note discusses a case study involving the development of a measure for articulatory precision in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), detailing the process from ideation through Food and Drug Administration (FDA) breakthrough status designation. Results: The case study demonstrates how the operationalization of the articulatory precision construct into a quantifiable measure yields robust, clinically meaningful results. The measure's validation followed the V3 framework (verification, analytical validation, and clinical validation), showing high correlation with clinical status and speech intelligibility. The practical application of these measures is exemplified in a clinical trial and designation by the FDA as a breakthrough status device, underscoring their real-world impact. Conclusions: Transitioning from speech features to speech measures offers a more targeted approach for developing speech analytics tools in clinical settings. This shift ensures that models are not only technically sound but also clinically relevant and interpretable, thereby bridging the gap between laboratory research and practical health care applications. We encourage further exploration and adoption of this approach for developing interpretable speech representations tailored to specific clinical needs.