Beyond videoconferencing: enhancing remote home assessments with 3D modeling technology.

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Digital health technologies
• Veterans health

Background:

• Veterans Health Administration occupational therapists now use videoconferencing for remote home assessments, especially for rural Veterans.
• Videoconferencing limitations include restricted field of view and poor video quality, impacting hazard identification accuracy.
• Three-dimensional (3D) models are explored as an alternative technology for remote assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a 3D model for remote occupational therapy home assessments.
• To compare the effectiveness and usability of 3D models against videoconferencing.

Main Methods:

• 3D models were created using a 360-degree camera and mobile app.
• Five occupational therapists underwent virtual training and practice sessions.
• Participants conducted remote assessments using the 3D model, completing usability questionnaires and interviews.

Main Results:

• Minimal training (average 10 minutes) was required, with most therapists maintaining or gaining confidence.
• Assessments were completed successfully in an average of 17 minutes.
• The 3D model received a high usability score (average 78.5 SUS) and was preferred over videoconferencing, addressing existing challenges.

Conclusions:

• 3D models present a viable and effective option for remote occupational therapy home assessments.
• Therapists can conduct more accurate assessments with minimal training using 3D models.
• Integrating 3D models prior to videoconferencing can enhance the remote assessment experience for both therapists and Veterans.