Rehabilitation engineering courses for rehabilitation professionals — an investigation of demand and requirements

Abstract

A two-stage market research investigation (postal questionnaire followed by telephone interview) was carried out to determine the demand for courses in rehabilitation engineering. Thirty six per cent of a random sample of 200 rehabilitation professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, chiropo dists, orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists) indicated an interest in such courses; interest levels were similar amongst recently qualified and established practitioners. Specific interests within the spectrum of rehabilitation engineering were wide ranging, indicating that comprehensive or selective courses were required. Most professionals felt that they needed a refresher course in basic mechanics before tackling any specialized rehabilitation engineering topics. Problems in attending courses were identified - study leave is difficult to obtain, with courses in day release format being most attractive. Funding of further education also presents difficulties, and although many professionals do finance courses themselves, few are willing to pay more than £200 per year.