A commentary on influences on selection of assistive technology for young children in South Africa: perspectives from rehabilitation professionals

Abstract

This commentary explores the issues raised in the original article and seeks to suggest how the systems and processes that the professionals utilize shape the challenges and issues they face. Furthermore, it asks the question as to the extent to which self-determination in the selection of many forms of assistive technology would address and resolve the barriers identified.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• The implications of the study and experiences of the professionals are highly relevant for the planning of future rehabilitation services. With increasing global demand for service, and an associated understanding that the client carries significant knowledge and experience it could be suggested that the underlying client/provider relationship is changing and will continue to change.

• There is potential for a shift from community-based rehabilitation services, to community led rehabilitation services, where the self-determination of solutions to need is led by the individual, with curated input from the professional, mediated through machine learning and artificial intelligence. Such a model of delivery could effectively support many of those with a disability, where the client has extensive experience, allowing the professional to spend increased resources on those who lack the experience to engage confidently in decision making.

• The recognition and validation of the knowledge held by clients, against which options can be mapped could ensure extended reach and reduce the cost and efficiency of future services.

Keywords:

• User led assessment
• self-determination
• innovation
• curation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.