Impact of Targeted Educational Interventions on Robotic Exoskeleton Adoption in Malaysia's Rehabilitation Practices

Yew, Chung Khian and Chai, Chau Chung and Sharifah Hanisah, Bt Wan Mohamad Akbar, and Yasothai, Sahadeevan and Mohd Helmi, Hashim and Shahrul, Aiman Soelar and Siti Maisarah, Md Ali and Nomahaza, Mahadi and Zaliha, Omar (2025) Impact of Targeted Educational Interventions on Robotic Exoskeleton Adoption in Malaysia's Rehabilitation Practices. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 104 (6S). S142-S142. ISSN 1537-7385

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Despite policy support, the adoption of robotic exoskeletons in Malaysia's rehabilitation practices remains limited. This study explores the impact of targeted educational interventions on facilitating robotic exoskeleton adoption among rehabilitation therapists in Malaysia. DESIGN: The study employed an action research methodology, incorporating pre- and post-intervention surveys adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), along with qualitative feedback. The interventions included an educational webinar on the benefits of robotic exoskeletons and training support. Data were collected from 62 rehabilitation therapists across four hospitals in Malaysia. Key variables assessed were Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU),and Intention to Use (ITU). Quantitative analyses were conducted using paired t-tests and Pearson correlation, while qualitative feedback was analyzed thematically. RESULTS: Post-educational intervention, significant improvements were observed: mean PU increased from 3.88 to 4.11 (p = 0.003), mean PEOU from 3.44 to 3.90 (p < 0.001), and mean ITU from 3.83 to 4.06 (p = 0.006). PU and ITU showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.769, < 0.001), and similarly, PEOU and ITU (r = 0.667, p < 0.001). Qualitative feedback emphasized the need for practical training and hands-on experience. CONCLUSIONS: Targeted educational interventions significantly enhance rehabilitation therapists' acceptance and readiness to adopt robotic exoskeletons in Malaysia. By addressing training gaps and providing practical experience, these interventions help bridge the gap between policy and practice, contributing to improved patient care and operational efficiency in clinical settings.

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