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Codesigning Solutions for Assistive Technology Service Provision in Queensland, Australia
Tammy Aplin1,2, Louise Gustafsson1,2, Christy Hogan1
1The Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.
Summary
Stakeholder collaboration in participatory action research improved assistive technology (AT) access. Key recommendations include an AT hub, mentor training, and advisor credentialing for better AT provision.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare policy research
- Assistive technology research
- Disability services research
Background:
- Assistive technology (AT) is crucial for universal healthcare, but access remains a global challenge.
- Effective AT provision requires collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
- Understanding and addressing AT provision challenges is vital for improving healthcare outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate challenges in assistive technology (AT) provision within one Australian state.
- To engage stakeholders in a participatory action research process to generate solutions for the AT sector.
- To develop a collaborative action plan for enhancing AT access and services.
Main Methods:
- A participatory action research approach was employed with a stakeholder group (n=14).
- The group included AT users, therapists, support scheme representatives, experts, and allied organizations.
- Four action cycles focused on research design, data interrogation, solution generation, and action planning.
Main Results:
- The stakeholder group actively shaped the needs assessment and solution-building process.
- Ten recommended solutions were generated, focusing on improving AT provision.
- Key action plan recommendations included an AT hub, mentor training, and advisor credentialing.
Conclusions:
- Participatory action research, driven by stakeholder collaboration, enhances AT policy research.
- Engaging diverse stakeholders is critical for successful needs assessment and solution development in the AT sector.
- The developed action plan provides a roadmap for improving AT services and access.
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