Ms Rebecca Grenfell1, Mr Patrick Dodds1, Ms Laura Seymour1, Ms Isabela Galafassi1
1Neurorehab Allied Health Network, Australia
Biography:
Patrick has been practising as an Occupational Therapist in Australia and the UK for over 17 years. He has a broad range of experience assisting people from all walks of life regain their independence and achieve their goals at home, in the community, and in the workplace. He has extensive experience in complex home modifications, complex equipment prescription, neurological rehabilitation and chronic disease management. Pat is the Head of Clinical Services at NeuroRehab Allied Health Network where he champions quality improvement programs such as introducing a wheelchair credentialling framework and excellence in client-centered multi-disciplinary goal setting.
Abstract:
In Australia, there exists a significant gap in agency within community services and safeguards regarding the prescription of wheelchairs, particularly for complex cases requiring specialized seating and support. This gap highlights the need for a structured framework to guide clinicians in understanding their scope and developing the necessary skills to prescribe appropriate wheelchairs. NeuroRehab Allied Health Network (NAHN) has developed a wheelchair credentialing pathway aimed at addressing this issue. This pathway provides clinicians with greater clarity and support, optimizing outcomes for individuals requiring wheelchairs while ensuring the appropriate prescription of different types of seating systems.
Our approach began with identifying different levels of wheelchair prescribers and recognizing the varying skills needed for prescribing complex wheelchairs. A key component of the project was the development of a "Level of Complexity" tool to assist in referral screening, alongside a therapist competency self-assessment tool to determine individual readiness for prescribing. We also designed a learning and skill development pathway that included access to relevant resources, prescription forms, and mentoring opportunities to ensure continuous professional growth. To optimise feasible upskilling, team members were upskilled to act as mentors to support hands on learning and career progression for clinicians looking to develop their scripting skills. The process was carefully structured to ensure that appropriately experienced clinicians engaged in the prescription of complex wheelchairs, ultimately supporting improved patient outcomes and providing a clear framework for developing clinician’s prescribing skills. A credentialing pathway enhances the quality of wheelchair prescriptions and clinical practice within our community health network.