Factors Associated with Device, Internet and Videoconferencing Use Amongst Individuals with Moderate-to-Severe...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Videoconferencing (VC) offers potential for improved healthcare access in traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation.
• Gaps in digital inclusion (ICT access, skills) may hinder equitable participation in remote rehabilitation.
• Understanding factors associated with digital inclusion is crucial for TBI patient engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify demographic, injury-related, and psychological factors linked to digital inclusion gaps in TBI patients.
• To assess readiness for videoconferencing (VC) rehabilitation among individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI.
• To develop a model guiding clinicians on patient suitability for VC-delivered rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 186 adults (18-65 years) with moderate-to-severe TBI (within 5 years post-injury).
• Utilized self-report measures to assess technology access, skills, and psychological factors.
• Data collected between March 2020 and December 2023.

Main Results:

• Most participants reported high technology skills and daily internet access across multiple devices.
• Injury severity did not correlate with technology use, potentially due to sample limitations.
• Demographic and psychological factors predicted VC readiness, informing a clinical suitability model.

Conclusions:

• Videoconferencing (VC) is a feasible modality for TBI rehabilitation.
• Individuals with TBI generally possess adequate digital skills and access for remote care.
• Increased provision of remotely delivered healthcare for TBI patients is recommended.