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Assessing the outcomes of equipment and adaptations: issues and approaches
- Authors:
- HEATON Janet, BAMFORD Claire
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 64(7), July 2001, pp.346-356.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Current government policy emphasises professional accountability, Best Value, evidence-based practice and outcomes for users and carers. In this context, being able to demonstrate the effectiveness of routine practice is increasingly important. This article considers the key issues in collecting information about the outcomes of equipment and adaptations. Three approaches to evaluating the outcomes of equipment and adaptations are distinguished: functional status measures; health status or quality of life measures; and indirect approaches. Examples of each approach are provided and their strengths and limitations discussed. Calls for further research on the perspectives of carers and the impact of service delivery to ensure that all the outcomes of equipment and adaptations are fully evaluated.