Clinicians' experiences and perspectives on robot-assisted lower limb and gait neurorehabilitation in Western Australia.

PURPOSE: Robot-assisted lower limb rehabilitation (RALLR) may be an effective adjunct to conventional therapy for those with neurological conditions. Robot-assisted rehabilitation is emerging in Western Australia (WA) and local perspectives on this technology have not been explored. This study aimed to explore perspectives of WA clinicians on RALLR, to inform further implementation.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional survey of neurorehabilitation clinicians across metropolitan WA. A subset of respondents completed semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were analysed thematically.

RESULTS

Fifty-six clinicians (across four professions) completed the survey. Eleven participated in an interview. The majority of clinicians expressed interest in upskilling in rehabilitation robotics (87.5%, n = 49) and incorporating robotics into their clinical practice (78.6%, n = 44). Access to devices, device practicality and clinician confidence using technology were identified as barriers to RALLR implementation. Comprehensive experiential learning, ongoing technical support and knowledge sharing were identified as key implementation facilitators. Suggestions for an optimised RALLR service in WA were discussed.

CONCLUSION

Most clinicians supported broader implementation of RALLR in WA. Successful integration will require coordinated clinician, organisational and health-system wide collaboration. Sustainable funding models, comprehensive workforce training, accessible technical support and consultation with clinicians and people with neurological conditions are priorities for RALLR optimisation.