Service delivery for complex rehabilitation technology: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Health Services Research
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Complex rehabilitation technologies (CRT) are crucial for enhancing independence and enabling participation in daily life for individuals with disabilities.
• The landscape of CRT service delivery is dynamic, influenced by evolving funding models, professional standards, consumer expectations, and technological advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of CRT service delivery processes for individuals with mobility impairments.
• To identify best practices, barriers, and unique aspects of health delivery policies and practices within CRT.

Main Methods:

• A six-step scoping review framework by Colquhoun et al. was employed.
• The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guided the reporting of findings.
• Studies were systematically identified, selected, and data were charted to synthesize information.

Main Results:

• Identified four primary categories and 16 sub-categories related to CRT service delivery, including policy, consumer aspects, service delivery models, and wheeled mobility devices.
• Data were synthesized from 21 countries, highlighting diverse funding sources and predominantly descriptive study designs.
• Analysis revealed common themes in policy, funding, and service provision across different global contexts.

Conclusions:

• Current CRT service delivery models often fail to proactively meet the needs of individuals with mobility disabilities.
• Consumers face challenges such as extended wait times, insufficient specialized clinical expertise, and limited educational support.
• There is a critical need for novel policies and increased research to advance evidence-based practices in CRT provision and improve outcomes for individuals with disabilities.