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Veterans Affairs Health Care Provider Perceptions of Virtual Reality: Brief Exploratory Survey
A'mie M Preston1, Lana Brown1,2, Kalpana P Padala1,3
1Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Eugene J Towbin Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center, North Little Rock, AR, United States.
Interactive Journal of Medical Research
|September 2, 2022
Summary
Healthcare providers are aware of virtual reality (VR) but underutilize it. Despite barriers, most providers would prescribe VR for older adults, indicating a desire to integrate this technology.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly adopted in healthcare for training and therapy.
- Its application in Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals remains limited.
- Provider perceptions of VR require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Explore healthcare provider perceptions of immersive VR availability and use for older adults.
- Identify barriers to VR adoption in older adults with cognitive impairment.
Main Methods:
- A web-based, 8-item anonymous survey was distributed to healthcare providers within a Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN).
- Survey data were collected via Survey Monkey and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Main Results:
- 73% of 49 respondents had heard of VR, but 90% had never used or prescribed it.
- Identified barriers include sensory impairments, technology perceptions, cognitive concerns, and resource access.
- 98% of providers expressed comfort in prescribing VR for patients.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers recognize VR but have limited direct experience.
- A strong willingness exists among providers to prescribe VR for older adults.
- Addressing identified barriers could facilitate VR implementation and improve clinical care.

