Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
Cognitive Function and Upper Limb Rehabilitation Training Post-Stroke Using a Digital Occupational Training System
Published on: December 29, 2023
Acceptability and Utility of a Virtual Reality Diabetes-Related Foot Disease Training Program for First Nations
Neil McMillan1,2,3, Ancret Szpak1, Zygmunt Szpak4
1Adelaide University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
Objective:
To test the utility and acceptability of a novel VR training tool for community health practitioners in assessing diabetes-related foot disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Methods:
The VR program featured five virtual patient models and a range of interactive assessments covering essential clinical and triage skills.
Design:
Pragmatic quasi-experimental case series.
Setting:
The VR training program was completed in collaboration with three Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations in regional South Australia, with recruitment directed internally at each organisation.
Participants:
Forty-one primary healthcare staff participated, of which 34 were matched on pre- and post-VR surveys and 20 completed at least three training scenarios.
Main Outcome Measures:
Evaluation consisted of pre-test self-efficacy scores immediately prior to participants undergoing training, submission of post-test self-efficacy scores, the System Usability Scale, and Training Evaluation Inventory scores after completing all training modules.
Results:
Following completion of VR training, participants reported increased self-efficacy scores (n = 20) for performing key assessment and triage skills. User feedback (n = 39) demonstrated that participants generally agreed that the training user experience was engaging, acceptable, and of value for clinical education.
Conclusion:
Community health practitioners generally found the VR training tool acceptable, useful, and increased their self-confidence in assessing and managing diabetes-related foot disease for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, highlighting the potential of VR to upskill community practitioners.
