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Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open Access
Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open
Journal article
Perspectives and needs of assistive technology advisors and suppliers in Queensland, Australia
Disability and rehabilitation: Assistive technology, Vol.20(5), pp.1403-1412
17/01/2025
PMID: 39819261
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Source: InCites
Abstract
An assistive technology ecosystem requires co-ordinated collaboration between policy, products, provision processes, and personnel. A needs assessment was conducted of the assistive technology sector in Queensland to examine these components from the perspective of all key stakeholders.
Materials and methods: This paper reports the findings of the expressed needs of the assistive technology sector as experienced by the AT advisors and suppliers. A sequential mixed methods design supported completion of a quantitative online survey (n = 29) followed by qualitative exploration with assistive technology advisors (n = 9) and suppliers (n = 6).
Results: There was an identified need to address the processes that led to delays or unfavourable outcomes for AT. Despite reporting confidence in the quality of services delivered, the advisors were worried about reduced access to expert consultation and a need to better build capacity and capability in the sector. Access to AT for hire or trial was problematic with conflicting tensions identified by the advisors and suppliers. However, both worried about the impact on the agency of the AT recipient in the process.
Conclusions: There are opportunities to enhance the personnel, provision, and policy aspects of the assistive technology ecosystem in Queensland. Pressure points are: workforce capacity and capability to meet the growing need; finding ways to support the trial of assistive technology required to ensure appropriate recommendations for assistive technology that is fit for purpose; and improving information from the bodies that manage funding to reduce the waste in the provision process.
Details
- Title
- Perspectives and needs of assistive technology advisors and suppliers in Queensland, Australia
- Creators
- Louise Gustafsson - Griffith UniversityCamila Shirota - Griffith UniversityAmelia Di Tommaso - Griffith UniversityTenelle Hodson - Griffith UniversityChristy Hogan - Griffith UniversityMichelle Bissett - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Disability and rehabilitation: Assistive technology, Vol.20(5), pp.1403-1412
- Publisher
- Taylor & Francis
- Grant note
- The NiisQ agency funded the research project, and a chosen representative played an active role in the project advisory group.
- Identifiers
- 991013252758002368
- Copyright
- © 2025 the author(s).
- Academic Unit
- Allied Health and Midwifery; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article