Evaluation of software and hardware for rehabilitation and management

Occupational therapists entering the field of computer applications for rehabilitation and management are perplexed by the plethora of options in hardware and software. Compound this with the need to be computer literate and the problems can be overwhelming. Many therapists desire a structured format for decisionmaking prior to the purchase of various options as salesmen are seldom familiar with the unique needs for software and hardware in rehabilitation environments. The purpose of this paper is to present questions most frequently asked by novices in computer applications. Additionally, structured evaluations of software and hardware for occupational therapy application will be presented. This paper will provide methods for therapists to be informed, self-directed and effective in the selection, justification, and purchase of computers and software in rehabilitation and management.