EPIC-Tech - Engineering and Physiotherapy Interdisciplinary Collaboration with Technology: A Case Study.

Abstract

We present a case study investigating the impact of integrating a novel rehabilitation device (Andago) into physiotherapy services of a public hospital in Australia. A 3month baseline of usual therapy was compared to a 3-month trial which involved an implementation team consisting of a physiotherapist and a rehabilitation engineer supporting a new rehabilitation device being used in clinical practice. Therapists were free to use the Andago for therapy. The patient progressed from non-ambulatory during baseline to walking with single-person assistance by trial end. There was a higher proportion of therapy dedicated to walking when comparing baseline to trial phases, and when comparing Andago and usual therapy within the trial phase. However, therapists reported increased perceived strain and fatigue during Andago-assisted sessions. Therapist engagement with the Andago was moderate, with the device utilized in approximately one out of five sessions per week. The implementation team enabled safe and supported uptake of the novel device which was valued by the case study participant and their therapist. Findings suggest the Andago's potential to enhance gait training but highlight the need to address usability challenges and staff burden to optimize integration and adoption in clinical practice. We believe this can be addressed by better integration of clinicallyoriented engineers in the delivery of rehabilitation services.