From Makerspaces to Practice: 3D Printing Expansion to Improve Assistive Technology Access

The rising demand for assistive technology (AT) highlights the potential of 3D printing as an innovative occupational therapy (OT) tool. This cost-effective technology enables the creation of customized AT devices that enhance client participation and well-being through remediation and adaptive approaches. However, adoption in OT practice faces several barriers, including limited practitioner awareness, insufficient training, and time and maintenance challenges. This commentary proposes a tiered approach focused on expanding education and integrating 3D printing into OT training and practice settings. In addition, it advocates for developing and using validated outcome measures to evaluate the effectiveness of 3D-printed devices. Client-reported satisfaction and participation metrics should be prioritized across practice settings to ensure that 3D-printed devices meet occupational goals and user needs. Expanding educational opportunities and developing validated assessment tools focusing on participatory outcomes will support broader integration of 3D printing in OT practice, improving AT access through client and practitioner collaboration.