Usability of Self-Management for Amputee Rehabilitation using Technology (SMART) & Telehealth interventions for mobility after lower limb loss (Esfandiari et al.)

Interviewer:

Elham Esfandiari PhD, MSc, BSc, University of British Columbia

Articles:

Usability of Self-Management for Amputee Rehabilitation using Technology (SMART): An online self-management program for users with lower limb loss

Telehealth interventions for mobility after lower limb loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Key Takeaways:

SMART was generally perceived as accessible and straightforward, with identified areas for improvement in navigation, presentation, and language. The program was subsequently redesigned to address these issues.
The second article identified a knowledge gap in the effectiveness of telehealth interventions for individuals with lower limb loss, with very low certainty evidence showing no significant changes in mobility, quality of life, or antecedents of behavior. The authors emphasize the need for further research in this area.

Please tell us about your lab, team, and research interests.

Our focus lies in user experience research for equity and health technology. We have a dedicated team working on exploring and enhancing the usability and effectiveness of health tech solutions, particularly for individuals with specific needs, such as older adults who use social prescribing programs or those with lower limb loss.

What are you working on right now that you are most excited about?Currently, in collaboration with Professor Maureen C Ashe, we are deeply engaged in social prescribing and understanding the needs of various stakeholders, including older adults and link workers. This research aims to contribute valuable insights to create more effective and user-friendly solutions that align with the diverse needs of these groups.

What are the next steps based on your research and how can we integrate your findings into clinical practice today?

Based on our research, the next steps involve implementing the redesign of the SMART program to enhance its usability. Additionally, we are actively exploring ways to integrate our findings on social prescribing and stakeholder needs into clinical practice. By bridging the gap between research and practical application, we aspire to contribute to the improvement of healthcare services and outcomes for diverse populations.