Existing models and instruments for the selection of assistive technology in rehabilitation practice

Abstract

Objectives: To review models and instruments for the selection and advisory process of assistive technology in the rehabilitation field as reported in the current scientific literature.

Design: Systematic literature review.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE (2003-2007). In a peer-review process with four independent investigators, studies were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Because of the poor publication situation, non-research sources were included as well. The data extracted and compared are: information concerning the selection process for assistive technology, whether a client-centred approach is used during the selection procedure, the use of models and instruments, and their compatibility with the ICF.

Results: The search resulted in 16 papers. None of the studies had an experimental design; nine of the publications were literature reviews. There is a lack of reliable and valid models and instruments for the selection process of assistive technology in the scientific literature. The prevalence of the Matching Person and Technology Model from Scherer (1998) is explicit in the publications. The ICF and ISO 9999 are the only classification systems mentioned in relation to assistive technology, although rarely.

Conclusion: This is a poorly developed field resulting in a lack of evidence-based procedures for AT selection. Such procedures are important to increase consumer satisfaction and the efficiency of AT provision. There is clearly a need for further research in this field.