Factors Influencing Adoption and Sustained Use of Rehabilitation Technologies: A Scoping Review and Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Rehabilitation technology (RT) development has grown, however evidence suggests poor uptake by therapists and patients, with many devices abandoned. Successful implementation encompasses both “adoption,” where RT is first utilized, and “sustained use,” wherein RT remains in use over time. This scoping review and qualitative analysis aimed to explore the extent and nature of the relevant evidence base and investigate factors that influence adoption and sustained use of RT in clinical practice, from the perspectives of patients and therapists.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify qualitative and quantitative articles investigating adoption and/or sustained use of RT. Study characteristics were analyzed quantitatively. Factors influencing adoption and sustained use were analyzed using a two-stage thematic analysis. Stage 1 employed an inductive approach, analyzing data related to RT adoption from review papers. Stage 2 employed an abductive approach, where data related to sustained use from primary research and reviews was mapped to Stage 1 themes and new themes were identified.

Results: The review included 42 articles. The majority of articles explored RT adoption. Thematic analysis revealed five themes. Four influenced adoption of RT: (1) “Knowledge” about RT; (2) “Design” of RT; (3) “Circumstances and Characteristics;” and, (4) the “Person-centered” approach. These were confirmed and refined in the sustained use analysis, and a fifth theme, “Healthcare Ecosystem,” was identified.

Conclusion: These findings highlight factors influencing adoption and sustained use of RT, providing insights for development and implementation of technology in rehabilitation clinical practice. Further research is needed to identify strategies that facilitate sustained use of RT.