Technology Adoption Potential of Medical Devices: The Case of Wearable Sensor Products for Pervasive Care in Neurosurgery and Orthopedics

Published In

Health Policy and Technology

Document Type

Citation

Publication Date

12-1-2018

Abstract

Objectives

This research focuses on assessing the potential technology adoption of medical devices particular to tracking the mobility of neurosurgery and orthopedics patients. Wearable medical devices that track the mobility of patients after spinal procedures could help surgeons to provide post-operative care, analysis of treatment outcomes, and patient mobility.

Methods

The assessment of medical devices by physicians is a complex process associated with various criteria and sub criteria. The hierarchical decision model (HDM) is used to break down the problem into hierarchical levels, and alternatives are calculated by using pairwise comparison scales and the judgment quantification technique. Inconsistencies, disagreement, sensitivity, and scenario analysis are performed as well. HDM research software is created by Ruby and R Studio.

Results

Patient perspective dominates in the main criteria for technology adoption potential of wearable devices for pervasive care in neurosurgery and orthopedics, followed by technical and financial criteria. The Valedo – wearable device, which aims to relieve back pain through exercises, motivation, and mobility tracking, received the highest ranking for adoption potential, while other devices also received high relative scores.

Conclusions

The framework could serve as a supplementary technology assessment tool, and could be tested in other settings: private clinics, small clinics etc. by taking into account the experts and special needs of the physicians in particular healthcare departments.

DOI

10.1016/j.hlpt.2018.10.011

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/27898

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