Objective:

To map and describe existing evidence on telehealth wheelchair assessment practices, technologies used, stakeholder experiences, and implementation considerations, particularly in low-resource settings.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• Over 2.5 billion people globally require assistive products, with 80 million needing wheelchairs.
• Access to specialized wheelchair services is limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), leading to unmet rehabilitation needs.
• Early evidence suggests that telehealth may enhance access to wheelchair assessments, with outcomes comparable to in-person assessments.

Interpretation:

Successful implementation of tele-wheelchair assessment requires clear protocols, clinician training, adequate technology, and user-centered practices.

Limitations:

• Substantial knowledge gaps exist regarding telehealth wheelchair assessments in low-resource settings.
• Previous reviews are outdated, lacking recent advancements in telehealth technology and practices.

Conclusion:

An updated synthesis of literature is necessary to clarify current practices and identify areas for further investigation.

Sources:

• PRISMA-ScR Guidelines
• Joanna Briggs Institute
Attribution Notice

This content is an AI-generated, fully rewritten summary based on a published scholarly article. It does not reproduce the original text and is not a substitute for the original publication. Readers are encouraged to consult the source for full context, data, and methodology.