Everyday Evidence: 3D Printing and OT's Role in Assistive Technology

How can occupational therapy practitioners expand their role in assistive technology development, and what does 3D printing have to do with it? In this episode of Everyday Evidence, we’re joined by Bill Janes, OTD, MSCI, OTR/L, whose work as an occupational therapist, researcher, and assistive tech advocate explores the intersection of 3D printing, client-centered care, and the PEOP framework. Together, we explore the potential of 3D printing to transform how occupational therapy practitioners approach problem-solving in assistive technology, offering customizable, affordable, and innovative solutions that can meet unique client needs in real-time. We discuss practical case examples, lessons from an ALS clinic collaboration, and recent research that demystifies the design process and challenges assumptions about cost and feasibility.  Resources:Makers Making ChangeThingiverseTinkerCADATIA – Assistive Technology Industry AssociationRESNA – Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North AmericaOT & 3D Printing Facebook GroupAT-AT Lab, University of Missouri  Research Articles Referenced:   Feasibility of Customized 3D-Printed Assistive Technology Within an Existing Multidisciplinary Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Clinic  Assessing the Use of Co-design to Produce Bespoke Assistive Technology Solutions Within a Current Healthcare Service: A Service Evaluation From Makerspaces to Practice:  3D Printing Expansion to Improve Assistive Technology AccessContact Hour Survey Link