Affiliations: [a] Research Center for Technology in Care, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Heerlen, The Netherlands | [b] School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands | [c] Focal Meditech BV, Tilburg, The Netherlands | [d] CATCH, Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Loek van der Heide, Lectoraat Technologie in de Zorg, Zuyd Hogeschool, Henri Dunantstraat 2, 6219 PB Heerlen, The Netherlands. E-mail: [email protected].
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The service delivery process of dynamic arm support (DAS) is complex. Obtaining an optimal match between user and DAS depends on a variety of interrelated factors, different professionals are involved, and the market of available solutions is evolving. OBJECTIVE: To determine how the service delivery process of DAS could be optimized. METHODS: Interviews with DAS users that retrospectively focused on the experienced service delivery process, which was compared to the ‘general Dutch prescription guideline. Results were presented in a focus group session to seven DAS consultants, and subsequently verified by a member-check. RESULTS: Sixteen people who considered the Gowing (a DAS new on the market) as a solution and seven DAS consultants participated. Aspects that can be optimized in the current service delivery process included an improved cooperation between clients, professionals and consultants, increased knowledge of DAS in professionals, an embedded user evaluation, and timely delivery. CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that the service delivery process is optimized by developing a DAS specific prescription framework. The issues identified in this study should be addressed in this framework. For this additional knowledge on how to optimally match persons and DAS is needed.
Keywords: Assistive technology, dynamic arm supports, service delivery process
