Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Jane Loscheider
Abstract
Title: Navigating the Wheelchair Recommendation Process: A Preventative Approach for Rural Providers
Background: Wheelchair procurement is a complex process that begins with patients seeing their physician for a prescription and guidance on where to go for step two. It is this critical second step that can make the difference for someone receiving a basic wheelchair meant for short-term use, or a referral to a practitioner specializing in seating and wheeled mobility. While getting to a physician's office can be challenging for all wheelchair users, a rural wheelchair user experiences additional barriers such as limited resources available locally, culture, and difficulties with traveling long distances to available services (Akinlotan et al., 2021; Frakt, 2019; Rural Health Information [RHI] Hub, 2018; Waite, 2015). When there is a disconnect at step two of the process, the wheelchair-seeking client could have an improperly fit wheelchair, which can lead to negative health outcomes such as pressure sores, contractures, pain, and negative psychosocial implications (Gowran et al., 2022; Sprigle, 2014; Valent et al., 2019). The purpose of this scholarly project is to create a tool to help educate and guide referring practitioners on the wheelchair procurement process.
Methodology: A thorough literature review guided by the Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) was completed to understand the barriers and supports for the wheelchair prescription and procurement process. A partnering site, located within a rural area, provided guidance and support to further understand the unique experiences of the rural occupational therapy practitioner and develop a tool to assist referring providers in the wheelchair prescription process.
Product: A flowsheet was designed to guide rural providers on the critical step of the wheelchair procurement process; when to refer for additional seating services or when a general wheelchair is adequate. The electronic medical record team was consulted for strategies to ensure a seamless transition with the best outcomes for the patient.
Implications: By providing physicians with the education and resources in the complex wheelchair procurement process, rural clients can secure a wheelchair for optimal occupational engagement and improved quality of life.
Recommended Citation
Rajewsky, Kelsey M., "Navigating The Wheelchair Recommendation Process: A Preventative Approach For Rural Providers" (2024). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 605.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/605