JULY - 20198In My OpinionCurrent Physical Therapy practice relies on visual observation coupled with hands-on practices for diagnosis, assessment, and follow-up treatment. Resistance to change and slow clinical acceptance of a larger role of technology in the rehabilitation industry is still the status quo. This article is not intended as an exhaustive list of what is needed to empower technology in the Physical Therapy profession,but is rather a thought framework to guide a dynamic discussion on more meaningful use of technology in the rehabilitation field. To initiate wider adoption of advanced technology in the rehabilitation industry we need to introduce four technologies which,if used as one system, would lead to a better automation model to improve outcomes. These four technologies are outlined below. Motion capture and tracking interfaces Motion capture and tracking interfaces record movements of objects or people and translates the recording into actionable data. The technology thus provides quantitative physiological measures to support physical evaluations and treatments, and to improve the personalization of Physical therapy interventions. Motion capture and tracking interfaces would play a pivotal role in any Physical Therapy automation model by analyzing functional movements, measuring ranges of motion, and allowing follow-up on objective measurements of function.Virtual RealityVirtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated environment. Instead of viewing a screen in front of them, patients are immersed in 3D worlds with which they interact. By simulating as many senses as possible, such as vision, hearing, touch, even smell, the computer is transformed into a gatekeeper to this artificial world. Motion tracking systems are commonly used in virtual reality-based interventions to detect movements in the real world and transfer them to the virtual environment.Tele-healthOxford's telemedicine definition is "the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunications technology." Using Tele-health in the rehabilitation industry encompasses the delivery and facilitation of rehabilitation-related services, including physical exam, patient education, physical treatments, and self-care via telecommunications and digital communication technologies. Live video conferencing and mobile health apps are examples of technologies used in Tele-Rehabilitation.Artificial IntelligenceArtificial intelligence (AI) is an area of computer science that emphasizes the creation of intelligent machines that work and react like humans. In the rehabilitation industry AI could be used to analyze data sets for patterns and arrive at recommendations for therapists. AI would thus support decision making in evaluation and treatment processes.Where are we now?Generally, there is small-scale adoption of the aforementioned technologies for rehabilitation in large health systems, teaching hospitals, and research laboratories; and no adoption yet in smaller hospitals, small practices, or community health centers. There is limited use of virtual reality and/or motion capture interfaces in research centers and teaching hospitals. We can find Tele-health capabilities coupled with virtual reality in some assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and skilled nursing facilities. A fully Mohamed Abdelrahman, MS, DPT, MBA, Healthcare Strategist and Doctor of Physical Therapy, Visiting Nurse Service of New YorkByTHE PHYSICAL THERAPY PROFESSION: THOUGHTS ON A FRAMEWORK FOR A PARTIAL AUTOMATION MODEL
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