Process Evaluation of the Optimized Provision of AT for Impaired Upper Extremity Function Within the OMARM Study

A quality standard for the ICF-oriented provision of arm supports and robotic arms was designed. To facilitate this new working method, tools were developed in co-creation with all stakeholders. Professionals received training and were asked to apply the new working method among their clients who participated in the intervention group of the OMARM project. To find out whether the provision had changed following the introduction of the quality standard, and to gain insight into the usage of tools and the perceived added value, a process evaluation was conducted after 3, 6 and 9 months by an online survey. In sum, the new working method was applied to 43 of 137 clients, and tools were used 105 times. Opinions on perceived changes, benefit, and practicability varied widely. Although tools were developed in co-creation with all stakeholders, several professionals' satisfaction with the developed way of working is lower than expected and its adoption lags.